With this hot weather, it’s hard to remember that Fall is just around the corner – but it is! At the Libraries, we have some exciting plans for September and October.
First, a note about COVID-19. Since the Delta variant is spreading locally and we’ve already experienced the impact at our libraries, we’ve decided to deliver our Fall programming in a virtual format via Zoom. If COVID-19 settles down earlier, then we’ll add in-person options to our events. Safety first!
Weekly children’s StoryTimes return on the week of September 13. You’ll be able to pick up your special StoryTime kit soon from your local library branch. Join everyone on Zoom each week for fun and learning in StoryTime Detectives.
Who doesn’t love to play detective? Later on, pick up a forensic kit so your child can join local scientist Beth Leffel in solving a crime based on the evidence in the kit. In “Introduction to DNA Fingerprinting,” kids learn about DNA mapping and fingerprinting. In “Forensic Impressions,” kids capture impressions in soft material, like footprints and tire tracks. It’s also a great way to build a deeper understanding of science and critical thinking skills.
It’s not just the little ones who get to play detective. We’ve planned an entire menu of CSI-style events where you can learn more about forensic science past and present. The centerpiece is a virtual author visit by Kate Winkler Dawson, author of American Sherlock: Murder, Forensics and the Birth of American CSI. If you haven’t read it, grab your copy now. Don’t forget to circle Thursday, Sept. 23, 6 p.m. on your calendar so you can join us via Zoom for a conversation with the author.
Other events explore the underworld of crime – and how to protect yourself. Let’s look at events for adults. “CSI Uncovered” takes you behind the scenes with the Virginia Department of Forensic Science. In “ID Scams,” local Commonwealth’s Attorney John Alexander shows you how to keep from being a victim. In addition, the Better Business Bureau presents key information to guard against COVID-19 scams and how to boost your cybersecurity. For high school and college students, BBB presents “Scambusters,” a Jeopardy-style event that helps young adults successfully detect and avoid teen-focused scams.
Our fascination with crime aside, it wouldn’t be Fall without pumpkins. Join us for Literary Pumpkin Decorating in October, where families and friends can design a pumpkin to display at our libraries and/or on social media.
Besides events, we have some fun celebrations this Fall. September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, so if you don’t have a library card – now is your chance. Drop by the library on September 15 for Dot Day, and bring home a challenge that encourages you to leave your creative mark in the world. You’ll notice a celebration of Hispanic culture in our libraries from mid-September to mid-October for Hispanic Heritage Month, and fascinating displays and information during Banned Book Week in late September.
Watch BoCoLibraries.info and social media for more details on Fall fun!
Botetourt County Libraries
