Friends of the Libraries: The library needs your help
You can make a difference. Dale Braun does.
Although most volunteers don’t keep track of things like this, Dale has counted the number of passport photos she has taken in the almost five years she has volunteered at the Donald Dungan Library in Costa Mesa. . Workiing just two hours a week, she has taken 752 photos, bringing in $7,520 for our three libraries?
But the satisfaction of making a difference is not the only benefit of volunteering at our libraries. You can learn a lot about yourself, other people and your community. And the experts say that volunteer work is good for you. It reduces stress and makes you healthier! And besides, you meet lots of interesting people.
And it helps the whole community. Why not give it a try? Call Donna Stapleton at (714) 432-7752 or write to the Friends of the Costa Mesa Libraries at 2969 Mesa Verde Drive East, Costa Mesa, 92626. We have positions available for working in either of the Friends’ two bookstores (at the Mesa Verde Library at 2969 Mesa Verde Drive East, or the Donald Dungan Library at 1855 Park Ave.), taking passport photos or serving as a passport receptionist. The hours are generally two to four a week.
If you would rather volunteer on a less regular basis, you might help with a book sale or serve on a committee that helps the Friends’ board. There are a lot of possibilities. Think about it, and call.
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At the Costa Mesa/Donald Dungan Library
On Oct. 21 and 28 from 9:30 to 10 a.m., the library’s weekly bilingual storytime is scheduled. This storytime features stories and songs conducted in both English and Spanish. Children of all ages are welcome, but the program is geared toward preschool-age children. This program is free. The library is closed at this time, so please knock at the front door to be let in!
Then, from 11 to 11:30 a.m., bring your child to toddler storytime. This fun, free program features stories, songs and crafts. Children of all ages and their families are encouraged to attend. Stay after the storytime for a snack and playtime with the library’s toys.
Children and their families are invited to join the fun every Tuesday from 3 to 5 p.m. for Duplos. These fun toys are available in the lobby and are fun for all ages.
On Thursdays, children and their parents are invited to join library staff at 2 p.m. for family storytime. There will be stories, songs and a fun craft at the end. Stay after to play with the toys and socialize. Family storytime is free and no registration is required.
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At the Mesa Verde Library
Make an appointment to receive one-on-one instruction on downloading ebooks and eAudiobooks to your tablet, e-reader, smart phone, MP3 player or other mobile device. Appointments are available every Monday and Wednesday starting at 9:15 a.m. Call (714) 546-5274 to inquire about other scheduling options, subject to instructor availability.
At 11 a.m. on Tuesdays, there are stories, songs and activities for preschoolers (ages 3 to 5).
Activities may include simple crafts, games or outdoor fun (like bubble days). Toddlers are welcome, with accompanying adult of course. Older siblings are also welcome. No registration is required. Just show up!
On Thursday, Oct. 24 from 3 to 4 p.m., put on your best costume and come to the Mesa Verde Library to participate in a jaunty parade that will take you around the library to collect scrumptious treats (and maybe a few tricks). Fun crafts and prize drawings are included. This is a family program for all ages.
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At the Costa Mesa Technology Library
At a workshop scheduled on Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to noon and Oct. 31 from 4 to 6 p.m., America’s Job Center of California will present the services offered at its center, previously known as One-Stop Centers, as well as services offered at the public branches of the EDD and WIA programs “Working for America.” The workshop includes a CalJobs demonstration as well as resume review. Bring your resume for professional critique.
MARY ELLEN GODDARD produced this column on behalf of the Friends of Costa Mesa Libraries, the Costa Mesa Library Foundation and the three Costa Mesa branches of the OC Public Libraries.