Friends of the Library has designated February as Library Lovers Month. During this month, we recognize the value of libraries in our community, honor librarians and library volunteers, and promote our work to assure that our county libraries continue to thrive and serve the public. The month-long celebration kicks off with a lively cultural program at one of the branches. Throughout the entire month, branches have special programs for all ages, freebies like stickers and pencils and food (even chocolate!). Library Lovers Month is also a good time for you to Support Your Maryland Libraries.

Please join us for the kick-off celebration with Ellouise Schoettler, award winning storyteller extraordinaire, at the Gaithersburg library on Saturday, January 31, 2009, at 11 a.m. You can get a taste of true southern-style storytelling, perfect fare for adults and young audiences (aged 5 and up) alike. A native of North Carolina, Ellouise blends all the traditional storytelling elements of personal stories, myths and legends, and time-honored tales and folklore with her passion for the environment. We are excited she will be performing for us, and invite you to check her out online at http://ellouisestory.blogspot.com/.

If you can’t make it to the Library Lovers Month kick-off, don’t worry! Friends chapters will host events at their branches throughout February. The Little Falls chapter is holding their “I Love the Library Family Celebration” on Saturday, February 14, 2009 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Afterwards, stop by the Rockville Library at 2 p.m. for a show by Kaydee Puppets featuring The Little Red Hen’s Wacky Week and The Princess and the Pea. The show will last approximately 30 minutes, and seating is limited, so arrive early! It’s the perfect way to start your Valentine’s Day. Throughout the entire month, there will be opportunities to create Valentines, receive giveaways including postcards and pencils, and attend other author events at each library. We hope you will join us in celebrating our amazing library system!

Library Lovers Month Events

LIBRARY LOVERS MONTH is sponsored by Friends of the Library, Montgomery County. This event is funded in part by a grant from the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County.