The only thing that you absolutely have to know is the locations of the library – Albert Einstein, 1921 Nobel Prize in Physics (1879-1955)

Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve. – Sidney Shelton, American writer (1917-2007)

After thinking about the lazy days of summer and wondering what to do when you’re out of school, I delved into studies about the use of libraries. Weekly visits to the local library are rich in health benefits. I found a list of six suggestions: 

1. Using the library during the summer between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. will help avoid harmful ultraviolet exposure to sun, skin cancer, and sunburn. 

2. Taking advantage of the library’s climate-controlled environment can prevent heatstroke.

3. Frequent trips to the water fountain prevents dehydration; allowing water free of charge. 

4. Once in the library take time to walk around bookshelves noting fiction, biographies, best sellers, paperbacks, magazines, videos, and non-fiction to improve fitness.

5. There will be areas of some of the heavier books in the library’s reference section and may increase upper body strength as books can weigh up to five pounds. 

6. Lastly, find your favorite spot in front of the book stacks. At a comfortable stance, reach slowly to the bottom shelf while browsing books on the lower level. Feel the deep stretch, improving your flexibility. 

Stop by the Columbus Lowndes County Public Library for summer programs, including Caledonia, Artesia and Crawford, where summer programs are listed by ages. Columbus’ “Kids Summer Library Program,” ages 5+, Mother Goose’s Summer Storytime Friends ages 2-5. Caledonia ages 5+ during the month of June. Artesia and Crawford ages 5+ during the month of July.   

Not to be left out, Columbus-Lowndes County Public Library offers summer programs for teens. “Dino Draft Night,” June 3 at 4 p.m. Followed by “Dino Debate Night Power Point Edition” on June 17 at 4 p.m. Next comes “DIY Dino Eggs” July 1 at 4 p.m., followed by “Cursed Dino Lab, Clay Creations” on July 15 at 4p.m.

Come join the fun there will be Adult Summer Programs at the Columbus-Lowndes library starting on May 30 at 10 a.m. and finishing on June 23 at 7 p.m.

Shannon Bardwell is a writer living quietly in the Prairie. Email reaches her at [email protected].