The Circulation Desk

Our Monthly Newsletter


April 2025

 

Director's Letter

 

April is a wonderful month to celebrate the library. The second week of the month is National Library Week. We will be kicking off celebrations with a family friendly performance by Mr. Jon and friends. All week long, April 6 - 12 will be fine free. So bring in those long overdue books. Also, you can stop by the library and fill out a postcard to let us know why you love your library. 


Lately I have had a lot of concerned patrons wondering how we are coping. With so much news of cuts across the government folks are worried about us. An executive order was signed to attempt to overturn IMLS (Institute for Museum and Library Services). We do not receive any direct funding to our library from the federal government. But the WV State library, which supports us, does. That could mean we could lose access to databases, internet access, or resources for the blind and vision impaired. To learn more please visit ala.org which has a very helpful page with Frequently asked questions concerning the Executive Order. Currently we are financially supported by the Corporation of Shepherdstown, the Jefferson County Commission, the Board of Education Levy, and by the State of West Virginia. We also depend on donations from support groups like FOSL, the Nourishing Literacy Giving Circle, the Shepherdstown Public Library Foundation, a variety of grants, and donations from our patrons. 


We are so grateful to have so much love and support from our community. The best thing that you can do to support us is to visit us; attend our programs, check out our materials, and discover all that we offer here. Libraries continue to stay essential because you are here and know our value. Already this year we have had an 30% increase in checkout of materials. New card creation is up by 10%. And program attendance from the entirety of last year has already doubled. So, thanks for already showing the love. We know that no matter what happens in the future you will be there to stand with us.

APRIL ART SHOW FEATURES LOCAL ARTIST & EDUCATOR

The Shepherdstown Public Library is pleased to present an April art exhibition featuring the work of local artist Doug Kinnett. The exhibit, on display from April 4 through April 30, showcases Kinnett’s bold use of color, geometric abstraction, and intricate patterns that immerse viewers in imaginative environments.


Kinnett, a lifelong artist and educator, has decades of experience in painting, printmaking, and mixed media. His work reflects a deep engagement with abstraction and pattern, creating compositions that invite exploration and interpretation.


Please join us for the opening reception will be held on Friday, April 4, from 5–7 PM in the library’s Commons Room.


This exhibit is free and open to the public during library hours.

We're Celebrating

National Library Week APRIL 6TH - 12TH.

Join the Shepherdstown Public Library as we kick off National Library Week (April 6-12) with a high-energy concert featuring Mr. Jon & Friends on Saturday, April 5th at 11 AM! All ages are welcome to celebrate the vital role of libraries in transforming lives and strengthening our community. 

Celebrating Hali Taylor's Legacy at SPL


Please join us on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM as we celebrate the incredible contributions and dedication of Hali Taylor to the Shepherdstown Public Library.


Hali’s leadership and passion have left a lasting impact on our library and community, including her dedication to fundraising and guiding the vision that brought our new building to life. We invite everyone to join us in honoring her legacy. As part of this special event, we will unveil a plaque dedicated to Hali in recognition of her years of service and commitment to fostering learning, literacy, and community engagement. All are welcome to take part in this heartfelt celebration!

 

NEW WEEKLY YOGA CLASS AT THE LIBRARY



Adaptive Chair Yoga, a new weekly class led by Dee Marshall every Monday at 10:30 AM, begins April 14th.


This gentle, accessible practice is perfect for all abilities and focuses on improving flexibility, balance, and relaxation. This class is perfect for easing into movement. This class is pay-what-you-can, with a portion going to the library.

ADVANCED CARE PLAN WORKSHOP ON APRIL 11TH


Join us at the Shepherdstown Public Library on Friday, April 11, from 1:30 to 2:30 PM for an Advanced Care Planning Workshop, presented by Hospice of the Panhandle. This session will explore the importance of documenting your healthcare preferences before a crisis occurs. Advanced directives ensures that your end-of-life care aligns with your values and wishes.

Companion Plantings for Gardens on April 26


James Dillon, PCH (Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist) will present on the the science and benefits of companion planting. This class explains the process of choosing plants that fill ecological niches for healthy gardens.

Additionally, he'll cover the importance of plant arrangements that result in interlocking, tight-knit communities. Proper companion planting can provide: low maintenance, high ecological value, pollinator benefit, and all-season interest. 


Join the workshop on Saturday, April 26th from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM in the Commons Room at the library. No registration is required.

Library Welcomes Shepherdstown Elementary 2nd Grade Class

The Shepherdstown Public Library recently welcomed a lively group of second graders from Shepherdstown Elementary School for a morning of exploration and discovery. During their visit, students enjoyed a special story time, embarked on a fun scavenger hunt, toured the library, received their own library cards, and checked out books to take home. We love when our local schools visit!

RESOURCES QUICKLINKS NOW ON

SPL WEBSITE HOME PAGE

Navigating the wealth of free online resources available with your Shepherdstown Public Library card just got easier! Our website now features new QuickLinks, providing direct access to valuable digital tools. Explore Libby for e-books and audiobooks, Kanopy for streaming movies and shows, TutorWV for live homework help and job prep, and Universal Class for free courses on everything from career skills to crafts and hobbies. Visit our website to start exploring these resources. They are on our homepage at the bottom of the page.

5 Guys Fundraiser Coming April 8th


The Friends of the Shepherdstown Library has organized another "delicious" fundraiser!


Save the date and plan to eat at 5 Guys on April 8th, 4pm - 8pm. 20% of all orders will be donated back to the library. To-go orders are included, so dine in or take your meal home. 5 Guys is located at 38 Joshua M. Freeman Blvd, in Ranson.

New Upcoming Programming

Doug Kinnet Art Exhibition Opening Reception - Fri., April 4th, 5-7 PM

Art Show runs through April 30th


National Library Week Kick-Off Party with Mr. Jon & Friends - Sat., April 5th, 11:00 AM


Death Cafe - Tues., April 1st, 12:00 PM


Dementia Caregivers Support Group - Thur. April 10th, Thur. April 24th, 10:30 AM


Adaptive Chair Yoga - Every Monday beginning April 14th, 10:30 AM (No class May 5th and 12th)


Socrates Cafe - Wed., April 16th, 10:30 AM


"All Booked Up" Book Club - Wed., April 16th, 5 PM


Lego Club - Sat. April 19, 11:00 AM


Tales Across Time Children's Program - Sat. April 26th, 11:00 AM


Native Havens Companion Planting Presentation - Sat., April 26th, 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM


Monthly Movie Monday - Mon. April 28th, 11:30 AM

 

ONGOING PROGRAMMING AT THE LIBRARY


MONDAYS: STEM Club - 4:00 PM, Middle School Math Club - 4:30 PM


TUESDAYS: Senior Social Lounge - 9:00 -12:00

Baby & Toddler Story Time - 11 AM


WEDNESDAYS: Pre-School Story Time - 11 AM, Meditation - 12 PM


THURSDAYS: QiGong Class 9 AM, Sensory-Friendly Quiet time 10 AM, Crafternoon 4 PM


FRIDAYS: Wild Wonders Nature Club is taking a break until May 2nd, Sip & Stitch 11 AM - 1 PM, Youth Chess Club - 1 PM - 3 PM

 
 
 

Shepherdstown Public Library | sheplibrary.org

145 Higbee Lane, Shepherdstown, WV 25443 (304) 876-2783

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