Library Feels the Economic Struggle

Clearly its no secret that the Racine community has been hit hard economically. In light of that, the Racine Public Library has become a host site for an Americorps VISTA member. This federally funded grant program places a Vista volunteer in deserving communities where economic projects will benefit the public.

The library's current VISTA has initiated a new Community Resource Center at the library. The center's purpose is to provide personalized assistance to patrons seeking jobs and/or needing help filling out online applications for social services and unemployment benefits. Access to information about community resources and agencies will also be available.

The Community Resource Center will be housed in the library's second floor computer lab on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4:30pm to 8pm; and all but the first Saturday of each month from 11am to 4pm. Assistance will be provided on a first come first served basis; no reservations are necessary. Please call Amber Richardson with questions regarding the center 262-636-9248.

The library will continue to offer free resume help on Wednesday's at the library from 9am to 5:30pm. Call 262-636-9217 to make an appointment with volunteer Juds Connell.

The Racine Public Library Board of Trustees sadly announced on Jan. 20 the decision to eliminate programs for adults at the library . Concerns and comments may be directed to Library Director Jessica MacPhail at 262.636.9252 or jessica.macphail@racinelibrary.info.

The following programs scheduled prior to the Jan. 20 date will continue as planned:

• Feb. 19; 2:00 pm - Birdscaping in the Midwest: Learn how to increase the number and variety of birds, butterflies, bees, and bats in your yard by growing native plants offering natural habitat and a year-long smorgasbord of berries, nuts, and seeds.
  
  
• Feb. 26 & Mar 26; 6-8pm - BONK! The free monthly performance series that quickly became an established entertainment event in downtown Racine may be about to end its run. Held at the Racine Arts Council 316 Sixth St., the series showcases poets, writers, musicians, film makers and other talented artists. Join us for what could be the final two performances by some outstanding talent, and perhaps be a hero to the rescue. Creative minds just might find a way to keep this gem going.
  
  
• May 5; 2:00pm - Lois on the Loose! One spirited woman takes a trip from Alaska to Argentina, then through the length of Africa, all from the seat of a motorcycle. Join us for an adventure-filled presentation by Lois Pryce, author of "Lois on the Loose - One Woman, One Motorcycle, 20,000 Miles Across the Americas".
  
  
• April 16; 2:30pm - Classical guitarist Peter Fletcher returns for a much anticipated second concert at the library. A versatile and in-demand artist, Mr. Fletcher plays standard works for classical guitar as well as music transcribed from other instruments. The New York City Classical Guitar Society's Nylon Review said simply: "Mr. Fletcher is one of the finest and most accomplished guitarists now appearing before the public."
  

The library will continue to find ways to provide free entertainment for families and youth and to offer the community valuable free services. For more information about programs and services visit the library's website at www.racinelibrary.info or call 262.636.9217.