CL Library offers free programs for all ages

From Toddler Story Time to adult and junior book clubs, the Canyon Lake Library offers programs for all ages.

September is Library Card Sign Up Month. Patrons who sign up for a new Riverside County Library System library card any time between Sept. 1 through Sept. 22 will receive a free lunch tote while supplies last. Library cards are free, replacement cards cost $1.

Since 1987, Library Card Sign Up Month has been held each September to mark the beginning of the school year. During the month, the American Library Association and libraries unite in a national effort to ensure every child signs up for their own library card.

Toddler Story Time will meet on Sept. 16 and 23 at 11 a.m. in the Kid’s Cove in the library. The program provides opportunities for young children to use their growing vocabulary and experience social interaction with other children. Mrs. Blackford engages the children with stories, songs and other activities appropriate for toddlers ages three and younger. A craft is included in the program.

Miss Ginny’s Preschool Story Time will meet on Friday, Sept. 27, at 11:30 a.m. The every other Friday program is for children ages three to five and includes an interactive story, music and movement activities. Parents may attend with their children in addition to older and younger children as long as they do not disrupt the program.

The Junior Book Club for kids in grades 4 through 7 will meet on Sept. 25, at 4 p.m. The selected book “Whispering to Witches” by Anna Daze. The Adult Book Club will meet on Monday, Sept. 30, at 4 p.m. The selected book is “Bel Canto” by Ann Patchett. Both clubs welcome newcomers. Copies of this month’s selection are available at the library.

Play Day will meet on Monday, Sept. 30, at 10:30 a.m. The program includes music and movement, a story, playtime, a craft and light snacks.

The Knitting and Crochet Crafters program meets on the first and third Fridays of each month from 1 to 4 p.m. The part-social, part-educational program is open to new crafters of all skill levels. Loaner tools and supplies are available.

The library offers Tech Time on Saturdays by appointment. Tech Time is a free program in which patrons ages 18 and older may have their questions about the internet, tech, or their devices answered by the Tech Tutor, an expert with more than 15 years of experience in the field. Patrons are encouraged to bring in their devices, such as laptops, smartphones and tablets.

The homework help program Roots to Grow is offered by appointment. High school students can earn volunteer credit for assisting younger children in their studies. Students wishing to volunteer as a helper or to come in for help should contact the library in advance to express their interest.

The Canyon Lake Library will be celebrating Banned and Challenged Books Week Sept. 22 through Sept. 28. Established by the American Library Association Office for Intellectual Freedom, this is a great time to visit the library and appreciate, discuss and discover controversial literature.

Public computers are available for use at the library. Saving is possible with the use of a removable drive such as a USB. The library offers an AWE computer for young children to use. The computer is preprogrammed with educational games and activities and not attached to the Internet.

The library is a collaboration with the City of Canyon Lake and the Riverside County Library System. Cards and returns from other affiliated libraries are honored.

The library is located inside the City Hall building at 31516 Railroad Canyon Rd. For more information, call 951-244-9181.

The Riverside County Library System will hold its annual all Staff Training Day today, Sept. 13. All county library branches, including Canyon Lake, will be closed for the day. The training will provide an opportunity for staff to learn about new strategies and practices that will enable them to better serve the community. The Riverside County Library System website, rivlib.net, will be available for access to online resources, item renewals and patron account information. All library book drops also will be accessible.