As summer approaches, the communities of Granite City, Pontoon Beach, and Mitchell, Illinois are filled with anticipation for the summer season. Amidst the warm sunshine and joyful vibes, there is a special place that invites residents to embark on exciting literary adventures: the Six Mile Regional Library District. At the heart of these communities, the library district is dedicated to promoting literacy and engaging readers of all ages. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of the Six Mile Regional Library District in fostering a lifelong love for books, particularly during the summer.

A Gateway to Imagination

The Six Mile Regional Library District serves as a gateway to the boundless realms of imagination. With its diverse collection of books, ranging from classic literature to contemporary bestsellers, the library district offers something for everyone. In June, as children and adults have more time to explore their interests, the library district becomes a haven for imaginative minds. By providing access to captivating stories and engaging literature, the district encourages young readers and adults alike to embark on thrilling literary journeys that ignite their love for reading.

Community Engagement

Summer brings communities together, and public libraries serve as the perfect platform for fostering meaningful connections. SMRLD organizes events, book clubs, and classes, creating a vibrant atmosphere of literary enthusiasm. These events provide an opportunity for readers to interact, share recommendations, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. By building a sense of community, libraries become spaces where book lovers can find like-minded individuals, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and intellectual growth.

Summer Reading Programs

Summer reading programs are a highlight of the Six Mile Regional Library District’s initiatives. Designed to combat the “summer slide” and promote literacy, these programs encourage children, teens, and adults to delve into the world of books. This summer the library district introduces exciting and creative approaches to incentivize reading. With themed events, reading challenges, and rewards, the district ensures that summer reading becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all participants. By igniting a passion for reading through these programs, the library district inspires a lifelong love for books among residents of all ages.

Lifelong Learning

The Six Mile Regional Library District is dedicated to promoting lifelong learning and personal growth. Whether you are planning a vacation, exploring new hobbies, or seeking personal enrichment, the library district offers an array of resources. From travel guides to cookbooks, gardening manuals to outdoor games and fishing licenses, SMRLD can equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to make the most of your summer adventures. Through these resources, the library district encourages continuous learning and exploration, even during leisurely months.

A Haven for All

The Six Mile Regional Library District is a welcoming and inclusive space for all residents 62040. Children can participate in storytimes, craft workshops, and interactive events that ignite their creativity and love for reading. Teenagers have access to cooking classes and crafts that help them develop new skills and explore their passions. Adults can join book clubs, and participate in educational workshops that promote intellectual growth and personal fulfillment. The library district ensures that everyone feels valued and supported within its walls.

As Summer arrives, the Six Mile Regional Library District stands ready to inspire a lifelong love for books and reading among the residents of 62040. Through our summer reading programs, commitment to community engagement, and dedication to lifelong learning, the district serves as a hub of knowledge, imagination, and connection. Whether you are a child discovering the magic of books, a teenager seeking inspiration, or an adult thirsting for knowledge, the Six Mile Regional Library District offers a welcoming space where you can embark on new literary adventures, connect with fellow book lovers, and explore the endless possibilities that the world of books has to offer.

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White awarded nearly $6 million in pandemic recovery grants to libraries focused on responding directly to the COVID-19 pandemic by modifying services, transforming spaces and developing resources for their local recovering workforce. Funding 211 academic, school, special and public libraries, all of which received grants ranging from $5,000 to over $1 million. A combination of funding sources provided through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), both from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and state technology funds were used to maximize the statewide impact.

SMRLD is the proud recipient of $50,000 of funding from the Illinois State Library’s (ISL) Bouncing Back from the Pandemic grant. As a part of our project, Building a Job Ready Workforce, expert, Frank Alaniz will be presenting a series of job search training sessions.

Job Searching: How to Find a Job – Thursday, March 23rd
Online Job Search Applicant Tracking Systems – Thursday, April 13th
Basics of LinkedIn – Thursday, May 11th
Library Training and Events Room, 2001 Delmar Ave, In person and via Zoom.

Registration Required – Please call
618-452-6238 or go to https://forms.gle/MA9ApYySXSxSq9kA6 to register.

We look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in the future about what we are able to accomplish through our grant funded project, Building a Job Ready Workforce.
*These materials were developed pursuant to a Library Services and Technology Act grant administered by the Illinois State Library using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Available at 2001 Delmar Ave: Tuesday – Thursday 11:00-2:30; &  Friday 10:30-2:30

Hayden Ellis joins the SMRLD as a Masters of Social Work intern. Hayden received their Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville. Hayden is currently enrolled at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in the Master’s program. Hayden’s goal at the library is to help and connect a customer who is in need with the services and resources provided within the community. Hayden has a passion for helping others and using solution-focused practice to help customers through any crisis in their life. Hayden also has experience with crisis work, as they currently work as a Mobile Crisis Responder in East St. Louis.

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White awarded nearly $6 million in pandemic recovery grants to libraries focused on responding directly to the COVID-19 pandemic by modifying services, transforming spaces and developing resources for their local recovering workforce. Funding 211 academic, school, special and public libraries, all of which received grants ranging from $5,000 to over $1 million. A combination of funding sources provided through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), both from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and state technology funds were used to maximize the statewide impact.

SMRLD is the proud recipient of $50,000 of funding from the Illinois State Library’s (ISL) Bouncing Back from the Pandemic grant. As a part of our project, Building a Job Ready Workforce, experts, Frank Alaniz and Dawn Mushill will be presenting a series of job search training sessions.

Registration Required
Thur., Aug. 18 or Sept. 22, 1:30-3:30 PM – WOWing Potential Employers
Wed., Sept. 7, 1:30-2:30 PM- Online Job Applications: What Do I Need to Know?
Wed., Oct. 12, 1:30-3:30 PM – Basics of LinkedIn

Please call 618-452-6238 or go to forms.gle/d3HYC9szEHgrBZrG6 to register

We look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in the future about what we are able to accomplish through our grant funded project, Building a Job Ready Workforce.
*These materials were developed pursuant to a Library Services and Technology Act grant administered by the Illinois State Library using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White awarded nearly $6 million in pandemic recovery grants to libraries focused on responding directly to the COVID-19 pandemic by modifying services, transforming spaces and developing resources for their local recovering workforce. Funding 211 academic, school, special and public libraries, all of which received grants ranging from $5,000 to over $1 million. A combination of funding sources provided through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), both from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and state technology funds were used to maximize the statewide impact.

SMRLD is the proud recipient of $50,000 of funding from the Illinois State Library’s (ISL) Bouncing Back from the Pandemic grant. As a part of our project, Building a Job Ready Workforce, expert, Frank Alantz will be presenting a series of job search training sessions.

Registration Required
June 1, 2022 1:30 – 2:30 Job Searching -Where Do I Even Start?
June 15, 2022 1:30 – 3:30 How to Write an Effective Resume (will include time for brief resume reviews)
August 24, 2022 1:30 – 2:30 Job Searching – Where Do I Even Start?
August 31, 2022 1:30 – 3:30 How to Write an Effective Resume (will include time for brief resume reviews)
September 7, 2022 1:30 – 2:30 Online Job Applications – What Do I Need to Know?
To register call 618-452-6238
We look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in the future about what we are able to accomplish through our grant funded project, Building a Job Ready Workforce.

Six Mile Regional Library District, in partnership with the Granite City Park District, is excited to present the StoryWalk® at Worthen Park, 2599 Parkview Drive.

A StoryWalk is an innovative way to get people of all ages out walking while reading children’s picture books thereby combining nature and physical activity with literacy.

Pages of a picture book are transformed into signs that are then laid out on a trail inviting families, children, and others to follow the path of pages. While reading along, participants will discover each of the 20 stations located throughout the park along the walking trail. These stations allow families to enjoy activities focused on reading, singing, movement, and other skills which are crucial to early literacy. 

The StoryWalk is a free activity available to all residents during the park’s open hours.

Our first title will be in honor of former Six Mile Regional Library District’s employee, Judy Modrusic. Judy worked in the circulation department for many years.  We chose a fun book set in a library’s children department, Chicken Story Time by Sandy Asher in her honor.  When walking the StoryWalk, you can follow along as feathered friends return to the library each week.  With its eye-catching illustrations and fun activities, this book is sure to be a hit with children and adults alike!

The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson and developed with the help of Rachel Senechal, formerly of the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in Vermont over a decade ago. You can now find StoryWalk® projects installed in all 50 states and internationally in countries including, Germany, Canada, England, Bermuda, Russia, Malaysia, Pakistan and South Korea.

Individuals, families, or organizations may sponsor a month of Six Mile Regional Library District (SMRLD) StoryWalk for $75. The sponsor’s name or logo will be featured on the opening frame of the StoryWalk located in Worthen Park.

Each donation will contribute to the cost of supplies, including book copies, lamination, and mounting paper. Books will be prepared in advance and installed by library staff. Each book will be displayed for approximately one month.

For more information on this StoryWalk, and the other programs and services the Six Mile Regional Library District offers, please visit our website, smrld.org, and follow us on Social Media.

To sponsor a month please complete the Six Mile Regional Library District StoryWalk® Sponsorship Form and return it with payment to Six Mile Regional Library District, 2001 Delmar Avenue, Granite City, IL 62040 or email to [email protected]

StoryWalk® Grand Opening
Worthen Park, 2599 Parkview Drive
Saturday, May 7, 2022
10:00 AM

Facebook StoryWalk® Grand Opening Event Link

Sydnie Vahling joins SMRLD as a Masters of Social Work intern. Sydnie received her Bachelors in Social Work at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. Sydnie is currently enrolled at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in the specialized Master’s program. Sydnie’s goal at the library is to help and connect any customer who is in need with the services and resources provided within the community. Sydnie has a passion for helping others and using solution-focused practice to help customers through any crisis in their life.

Social work in libraries is a new and evolving field within social work practice. When working in libraries, social workers can be useful in many different ways. Library social work merges macro and micro practice to serve customers needs by serving as a learning resource, building community networks, and providing crisis intervention. Sydnie will be accessible to any customer who is in need of connecting to resources available within the 62040 area by phone at 618-452-6238 ext 732 or email at [email protected].

Due to a change in ownership of the RBdigital Media Company, the unlimited subscription model for lending eAudiobooks and magazines is no longer being offered for library licensing. In addition, the new owners announced the intent to discontinue the RBdigital apps and website in the near future.

Digital eAudiobook access on RBdigital ended March 15, 2021. Digital magazine access will end on March 31, 2021.  

We do not have a replacement for digital magazines at this time, but we are in conversation with a company who may be able to provide a comparable consortial lending model which is what we are losing in RBdigital. Consortial lending models allow us the ability to offer a robust collection of titles at a cost we can afford.

While we do not have a replacement for the digital magazine content, we do have many other options for eAudiobook material. If you are not a user of the CloudLibrary or Hoopla, both have eAudiobook content and we hope you’ll enjoy our these or our other Streaming Services. Please, feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] or call us at 618-452-6238 with any questions.

We regret having to bring you this news as particularly the digital magazines were very popular with our users. We hope to have a solution in the coming months.