Author Archive
2025 All Ages Summer Reading Challenge
Friday, June 6th, 2025
Level Up at Your Library
June 1 – July 21
Register online at smrld.beanstack.com, with the Beanstack Tracker App, or at either library location
Adult Challenge 18+
Log books you read or listen to between June 1 and July 21.
For every two books you read, you will receive a ticket to enter in a drawing for a $75 gift card to either Aldi or Tacos El Manny!
The drawing will be held on July 23!
Teen Challenge 7th-12 grade
Register online at smrld.beanstack.com, with the Beanstack Tracker App
Stop by either library location to pick up a free tote bag to keep your badges on.
Complete activities (like read an hour each week or attend a program) to earn badges.
Earn 6 badges and receive a ticket for the Summer Reading Finale movie screening with free drink and popcorn at the Granite City Cinema on Friday, July 25 at 2 PM
Kids Challenge babies-6th grade
Stop by either library location to pick up a free book to get you started
Log books you read or listen to between June 1 and July 21
Read 10 books to complete the challenge
Stop by either library location to get a finishing bag with prizes & receive a ticket for the Summer Reading Finale movie screening with free drink and popcorn at the Granite City Cinema on Friday, July 25 at 2 PM
Kids’ Summer Reading Programs
2 PM at The Mill, 1311 E 20th St (Across the street from our 2001 Delmar Ave location)
Friday, June 6: Will Struck’s Pigment of Your Imagination – Let’s Van Gogh, Go, Go! Will brings his usual high energy and hilarious M.E.S.S. (Music, Education, Stories & Science) to your library with an art and color themed show that is once again loaded with audience participation.
Friday, June 13: Storm Science – Storm Science is on a mission to bring the wonder and excitement of weather to people of all ages, through engaging and fun educational programs that inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Friday, June 20: Swords & Roses The Cavern of Elements – Adventurers must go through all parts of the cavern, solve the puzzles in each cavern within a one hour time frame in order to escape! Dungeons and Dragons Jr. meets Escape Room puzzles.
Friday, June 27: Do Art Productions – Bringing charismatic enthusiasm for the creative process with their multimedia approach, playing live music and drawing interactively, as well as performing comedy, juggling, and a riding unicycle for good measure.
Friday, July 11: World Bird Sanctuary: Creatures of Myth & Legend – Have you ever wondered whooo inspired a ghost story? Join our Naturalists for a program all about the ways animals inspire myths and legends across the globe. Featuring live birds.
Friday, July 18: Monkey Noodle Theatrics Improv Comedy Show – Enjoy a fun, family friendly, improv show!
Sponsored by The Friends of the Library. Photographs may be taken at all events and activities and used for publicity purposes.
Questions? Email [email protected] or call the Youth Services department at 618-452-6238 ext 720
Kids & Teens 2025 Summer Reading Finale
Friday, July 25
2 PM at The Granite City Cinema
Children and teen reading challenge finishers can celebrate with a private movie screening with free drink and popcorn!
Questions? Email [email protected] or call the Youth Services department at 618-452-6238 ext 720
Reading Dragons
Friday, May 16th, 2025
Reading Dragons
Join our new Reading Challenge – Starting June 2025
Open to Children and Teens
Read to earn Cards. Collect, trade & Play the Game!
Do you like card games? Do you hoard books like dragons hoard treasure? Then join our Reading Dragons challenge!
This is a collaborative national reading program created by the Dover Public Library in Ohio that encourages children and teens to read for fun. Participants can track their reading, collect dragon trading cards, and play card games, all while learning good reading habits and gaining a lifelong love of reading!
For every two hours of reading logged, you may collect a set of dragon cards. A set has 4 cards – an egg, a baby, a teen, and an adult. Bring your log into the library to be signed off by a librarian and choose your cards. You may collect, trade, and play the game with your cards.To play, secretly choose one card. Keep it hidden from your friend, then at the count of three reveal your cards. Fire dragons beat Leaf dragons. Leaf dragons beat Water dragons. Water dragons beat Fire dragons. If you have the same color, the oldest creature wins. If your dragons are the same type and age, then the game ends in a tie.
Stop by either library location to get started.
Questions? Email [email protected]
No Joke—Library Giving Day is Here!
Tuesday, April 1st, 2025Library Giving Day is here, and no, this isn’t an April Fools’ prank!
Today, we invite you to show your library love by helping us bring the joy of books to children in our community.
Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, kids from birth to age five receive a free book in the mail each month—building early literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading.
How You Can Help:
✅ Donate: Every $25 sponsors a child’s books for a full year. Online or by check
✅ Spread the Word: Tell parents in 62040 about this amazing free program!
✅ Sign Up: Know a child under 5? Register them today! www.smrld.org/dpil/
No tricks, just books! Your support today makes a lasting impact on young readers in our community.
Learn more: www.smrld.org/support-the-library/
Thinking Money for Kids Grant
Thursday, December 19th, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Earn, Save, Spend, Budget! Kids Can Learn about Personal Finance through New Library Offerings
62040 — Young people will have the opportunity to learn about financial topics — like earning, saving, spending, sharing and budgeting — in a way that is both meaningful and fun through a new SMRLD offering. Starting 2025, visit the library for in-person kids’ programs or take home a tablet loaded with fun games, offered through the Thinking Money for Kids program.
SMRLD has been selected to receive a Thinking Money for Kids Program Kit from the American Library Association (ALA) and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. The Program Kit is a collection of expertly vetted resources to help libraries teach financial education concepts for children ages 3 to 12, both in the library and in children’s homes.
Selected through a national application process, the Six Mile Regional Library District is one of 300 libraries to receive this unique offering.
“We’re excited to introduce the Thinking Money for Kids programs at Six Mile Regional Library District!” said Youth Services Manager Erica Hanke-Young. “Customers can borrow Playaway Launchpad tablets pre-loaded with fun financial games for kids ages 5 and up. Plus, stay tuned for engaging financial education children’s programs coming to the library in 2025.”
Playaway Launchpads are kid-friendly tablets designed to continue learning at home, available to check out for 1 week. The Launchpads don’t require a home internet connection and will be available for checkout at our 2001 Delmar Ave location NOW. Games that are pre-loaded on the Launchpads also have corresponding physical games in the library including Pet Cents, Making Mooo-lah, Currency Conga and Penny Pinchers’ Party.
For more information and a calendar of upcoming Thinking Money for Kids programs, visit smrld.org/thinkingmoneyforkidsgrant/
Contact:
Erica Hanke-Young
Youth Services Manager
Six Mile Regional Library District
618-452-6238
[email protected]
Thinking Money for Kids Storytimes
10 AM at SMRLD, 2145 Johnson Rd
January 13 – Currency Conga: Learn to Identify Money
January 27 – Special Guest: Stephanie Bevely from the IL State Treasurer’s Office
February 3 – Piggy Bank Theater: Learn the difference between Spend & Save
In partnership with FINRA and ALA
Explore, Learn, Succeed!
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 is National Voter Registration Day!
Monday, September 16th, 2024Did you know you can register to vote at the library?
To vote in Illinois you must be a United States citizen, 18 before the General Election, live at the current address 30 days prior to Election Day. To register to vote at the library two forms of ID are required and one must have the current address. If you meet these requirements stop by either one of our tow library locations to meet with one of our Deputy Registrars.
If you do not meet those requirements yet, you can check back at the library or even register online!
Are you registered to vote? Check here If not get registered at the library, online, or any other method that works for you!
Roll Out to the Library this September for Library Card Sign-Up Month
Friday, August 30th, 2024
Celebrate Library Card Sign-up Month this September with SMRLD and the American Library Association! We’re inviting everyone to discover the incredible resources and opportunities available at your local library by signing up for a library card.
This year, we’re thrilled to have Optimus Prime from the TRANSFORMERS as our special ambassador, highlighting that there’s more than meets the eye at SMRLD. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, find valuable information, or connect with fellow readers, a library card unlocks a world of possibilities.
Today’s libraries are vibrant community centers offering much more than just books. At SMRLD, you’ll find diverse programs, job search assistance, book clubs, author talks, story times, and more.
Curious about exploring a new hobby or learning a new language? SMRLD has the resources you need.
Did you know that SMRLD offers Passport Services? There’s truly something for everyone at the Library. Getting a library card is easy and is an essential step toward academic success and lifelong learning for students. Everyone should have one!
To learn more about how to get your SMRLD Library Card visit smrld.org/connect/get-a-library-card/ or call us 618-452-6238
Don’t miss out! Visit SMRLD this September to sign up for a library card and discover all that your library has to offer.
The Library Board of Trustees are looking to fill an open board seat.
Wednesday, June 12th, 2024
Now Accepting Applications
Want to become a Library Trustee and Join the SMRLD Board of Directors?
This is a non-compensated position.
The Six Mile Regional Library District Board of Trustees is seeking candidates to fill a vacancy on our seven-member Board, which sets the library’s tax levy, budget, and library policies. (75 ILCS 16/30-55)
Candidates may be selected to be interviewed by the Board. The appointment of the individual chosen starts September 9, 2024, and runs through April 2025. The position will be up for election during the general consolidated election process in the spring of 2025 to complete the remaining four-year term (through April 2027). At this time, the Board prefers to appoint candidates who seriously consider running for election in 2025.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Attend Board meetings (second Tuesday each month, 6:00 PM)
- Preview the agenda, minutes and documents before each meeting
- Participate in discussion and decision making at each meeting
- Commit time outside of meetings for the work of the Board
- Be knowledgeable about the goals, plans, history, and future of the library
- Represent the library at community events, be visible and accessible
- Have a sincere commitment to the purpose and mission of the library
- Be informed about library issues through state and national library organizations
- Be an advocate for the library community
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Qualified elector/registered voter residing in the library district (62040) for at least one year
- Must be current in the payment of property taxes and not indebted to the library
- May not have been convicted of a felony (75 ILCS 16/30-20, d & e)
- Relevant professional, volunteer, or board experience
- Knowledge of community interests
Submit your application, letter of interest, and resume/cv via email to [email protected] (preferred) or hand deliver to 2001 Delmar Avenue, by Friday, July 5, 2024, 3:00 PM.
The resume/cv provides the following information: schools/degrees attained/year of graduation; present occupation & employer/# of years with this employer (previous if retired); current and past board, civic, and other volunteer/community activities.
Summer Reading Challenges June 1 – July 20
Tuesday, May 21st, 2024It is time for SUMMER READING!
The theme this year is Read Renew Repeat!
Children Baby through Grade 6
- When kids register they will get a free book from either library and be entered into a weekly drawing for Cardinals vouchers (good for 4 tickets)
- They must read 10 books from June 1 to July 20
- If they complete 10 books they will receive a finishing bag with prizes and be eligible for a free tee shirt!
- They must come to the finale to get their shirt.
BONUS Smokey the Bear Reading Challenge (Children Baby through Grade 6)
- If the child is registered for this and the summer reading challenge, their books read will count for both.
- Children need to read 3 books and complete 5 activities to complete this challenge.
- Finishers will be able to pick up a prize bag, with stickers, crayons, and a coloring book, at either library location.
- Plus, they will be entered into a drawing to win a Smokey the Bear teddy bear.
Teens Grade 7-12
- When teens register they will receive a free tote bag.
- They earn badges through July 20 by reading 60 minutes per badge or completing an activity.
- When they earn badges, they will be able to make the badges into pins for their tote bag in the YS department.
- When they earn 6 badges they will qualify to get a tee shirt.
- They must come to the finale to get their shirt.
Adult summer reading Ages 19+
- They must read 8 books from June 1 to July 20
- If they complete 8 books they will receive a reusable grocery bag filled with other goodies!
- The bags will be ready for pick up after June 10.
Our weekly Friday performances will take place at The Mill, 1311 E 20th St (Across the street from our 2001 Delmar Ave location) at 11 am!
Celebrating Tallin Curran’s MBA Graduation: A Milestone in Education and Leadership
Tuesday, January 16th, 2024
The Six Mile Regional Library District proudly congratulates Tallin Curran, our Information Technology Manager, on his recent graduation from Murray State University. On December 9, 2023, Mr. Curran proudly graduated from Murray State University, securing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a distinguished concentration in Cybersecurity.
Tallin’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the library, where he plays a vital role in IT and local history research. Mr. Curran has been an elected member of the Granite City Community Unit School District #9 Board of Education. His outstanding service was recognized in April 2023 when he was appointed as the Board President, a testament to his leadership skills and dedication to the betterment of education in our community.
Murray State University’s prestigious Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business recognized Mr. Curran’s achievement, highlighting the program’s AACSB accreditation and its consistent position in the top 5% of global business schools. Murray State’s commitment to academic excellence aligns seamlessly with Tallin’s own pursuit of excellence in both education and leadership.
As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Tallin Curran. His dedication to personal growth and professional success is an inspiration to us all. We are proud to have him as part of the Six Mile Regional Library District team and commend his commitment to educational excellence in Granite City.
For more information about Murray State University, please visit murraystate.edu.
Remembering Gregg McGee: A Legacy of Service and Love for Knowledge
Monday, January 8th, 2024It is with deep sorrow that the Six Mile Regional Library District announces the passing of our longest-serving former employee, Gregg McGee. Gregg, a Granite City, Illinois native, dedicated over four decades of his life to the library, leaving an indelible mark on our institution and the community we serve.
Gregory Lee McGee, born on January 16, 1947, to Marvin Lee and Conleth Margaret (O’Brien) McGee, passed away on December 24, 2023, at the age of 76. His journey through life was marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering passion for knowledge and communication.
Gregg’s early life took an unexpected turn when, drafted during the Vietnam War, he found himself assigned to company clerk duties in Furth, Germany after an injury redirected his military career. Returning home with government assistance for education, he enrolled at SIUE, where he played a pivotal role in launching the student-run radio station WSIE-FM, later becoming its station manager.
Despite not envisioning a college education, Gregg’s life took another turn when he secured a temporary job at the local library. Little did he know, this would be the beginning of a lifelong commitment. Over the years, Gregg’s impact extended beyond the library as he initiated his own local cable show, “Coffee Break with Gregg McGee,” providing a platform for local experts and occasionally featuring national celebrities.
Simultaneously, the library was evolving, and Gregg played a crucial role in its expansion. He served as branch manager when the first branch facility opened in Nameoki Village Shopping Center. Despite facing challenges, including the need for a master’s degree in library science, Gregg persevered. With the support of the library, both he and his brother-in-law earned their Master of Library Science degrees from the University of Missouri.
As an assistant manager with the Six Mile Regional Library District, Gregg continued to enrich the community by sponsoring visits from local and national writers. His commitment to literature was further exemplified through his enduring friendship with acclaimed writer Robert Owen Butler, a Granite City native.
Gregg’s retirement, after an astounding forty-three years of service, was due to health reasons. During retirement, he enjoyed gardening and cherished moments with his beloved dog, Bo. A faithful member of several churches, Gregg’s health unfortunately prevented him from attending in person.
Gregg McGee’s legacy lives on through his three sisters, a brother, and numerous extended family members and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Six Mile Regional Library District, for masses, or to favorite charities.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:40 a.m. on Saturday, January 13, at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road, Granite City. A funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 2606 Washington Avenue, Granite City, with burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville.
Gregg McGee’s legacy is not only imprinted in the history of the Six Mile Regional Library District but also in the hearts and minds of those he touched throughout his remarkable journey. We remember him with gratitude, respect, and a profound sense of loss. May he rest in peace.
Obituary: https://www.irwinchapel.com/obituaries/Gregory-Lee-Mcgee?obId=30239981#/obituaryInfo
The January 2024 StoryWalk® at Worthen Park is in Memory of Gregory McGee
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