More than 780 children have participated in the Moniteau County Library "Library's Rock" summer reading program, Director Connie Gerling reported to the board July 19.
The last summer reading program in 2016 saw an attendance of 425.
The staff this year have provided programs for Jamestown, High Point and Latham summer schools, California second-grade summer school, eighth preschools, Moniteau County Head Start, four age group programs and five elementary-aged day camps.
At the end of the summer, children may "spend" tickets earned for their reading productivity at the Prize Plaza, which opens July 30 and remains open until Aug. 10.
"It's going to be the coolest Prize Plaza we ever had," Gerling said.
Board members were pleased to hear about the increased participation in the rural areas, particularly.
"That's really exciting for our county," said chairman Laura Burger. "We put in the hardwork reaching out to these communities and they responded."
The board also was pleased with the exterior improvements being made, including a new access to the basement.
In other business, the board:
- Learned three more refurbished computers had been sold, bringing the total up to 29 so far.
- Directed staff to create a brochure highlighting the libraries programs, services and items available.
- Approved extending evening hours through Aug. 14.
- Discussed reorganizing the titles by content rather than the Dewey Decimal system.
- Suggested staff should consider relocating the children's section upstairs.
- Approved returning $656 to the Friends of the Moniteau County Library, which received its 501(c)(3) status, after holding the funds for the not-for-profit's predecessor.