From the Stacks
By Carol Ann Robb, PPL Reference Librarian

The final session of Camp Read-a-Lot, the library’s reading programs for adults, is fast coming to a close. Since its opening last month, participants have had the opportunity to learn about foraging, hunt for woodland creatures amongst the stacks on the second floor, receive a Books & Gear gift bag, attend book discussions, and well, read a lot.

By completing one, two, or three reading trails, book campers have earned badges, a PPL water bottle (which comes in very handy during days with triple-digit highs), and the chance to win the grand prize drawing (a gift certificate from our local bookstore, Books & Burrow). And how does a camp usually end? Why, with a campfire complete with s’mores and spooky stories!

At least, I assume that’s what happens at the end of camp. I’ve never been to one but have heard from others that campfires are customary and stories and books go hand-in-hand. And I happen to know some very good storytellers who jumped at the chance to share their skills when I asked (well, maybe not jumped but they did say yes).

So next Wednesday, July 27, at 6:30 p.m. everyone is welcome to join our Spooky Story Campfire. Come listen to storytellers Bev Clarkson and Babs Tims as they retell classic campfire lore guaranteed to make the hair stand up on the back of your neck (we were expecting Phil Carter to join us but he’s had to decline—and no, it’s not so he can go fishing!) There might be a few other camp-like activities (I did go to Girl Scout day camp so I’m not totally ignorant of the whole camping experience). Expect some retro, cheesy, campy fun!

I can hear some of you saying, “but it’s still going to be beastly hot next week” but not to worry. This is a reading camp—we do our activities indoors! The meeting room will be atmospheric but air-conditioned and you won’t be sitting on dirt, swatting at mosquitos. It will be rather civilized as campfires go (think s’more bars rather than toasting your own marshmallows).

Still others are thinking, “I didn’t take part so I can’t go.” Well, you’re wrong—we’d love to have you. The more the merrier! And if you have older kids or grandkids (say age 8 and older), bring them along. Some of the stories may be a bit too scary for the younger set—this isn’t one of Gail’s story times.

Our last two summer reading programs were pared down but now it’s time for an evening of good old-fashioned fun. Come prepared to enjoy some possibly corny songs and stories that will take you back to simpler times of your past. Don’t let the young kids have all the fun—we older kids deserve some too!