The Allen Parish Library is starting off the year with many programs promoting literacy, helping prepare students for testing, addressing finances, etc.
Start off the New Year by signing up for your reading badges at allen.beanstack.org. The first reading challenge, Adventure Awaits: 2024 Around the Year Reading Challenge, is for all ages, through Beanstack.
“Reading can take you anywhere! Journey to faraway lands, experience new perspectives or explore your inner world from the comfort of your favorite reading book! Read and log in 52 books throughout the year 2024 to earn badges. Earn your badges and receive a certificate of completion and a prize,” said library organizers.
Mark your calendars
Story time for the new year will be observed Tuesday, January 9, 16, and 30, from 10 to 11 a.m. at each branch.
Senior citizens day at all branches will be January 11, from 10 to 11 a.m. Free bingo is on the agenda for seniors, 55 and older.
The Kinder Pre-K will tour the Kinder branch on January 12, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
The library branches will be closed on January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Food for Fines
During the month of January, you can pay your library late fees with donations to the food pantry. Drop off locations will be at any branch from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each week day. Note that outstanding items must be returned and donations brought to the library circulation desk before any fines can be forgiven. For information, contact the library at 1-800-960-3015.
ACT Prep program set
A Free ACT Prep event will be held at the Allen Parish Libraries once again through a partnership with SOWELA in Oakdale. All local high school students, grades ninth to 12th, are invited to register by Wednesday, January 17. Register at https:forms.gle/ewsuwmbqxdrwmcfu7 or call 1-800-960-3015.
Prep classes will be held January 22, at the Oakdale branch, January 29 at the Oberlin branch and February 5, at the Kinder branch from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Balance your bank roll
This program is open to young adults and parents. First Federal Bank of Louisiana and First Horizon Bank will help attendees learn about budgeting, checking and savings accounts, as well as understanding credit and much more. Register now at https:forms.gle/azxczkjpjojt6lv8 or call 1-800-960-3015.
Sessions will be held on January 23, at the Oakdale branch, January 25, at the Oberlin branch and January 25, at the Kinder branch from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Bookmobile schedule
The bookmobile schedule for January will include visit to the Kinder Nursing Home, Head Start and home deliveries on Mondays.
On Tuesdays, the van will travel to the Kinder Hospital and Reeves Water District on January 9, and 23, and Fairview High on January 16, and 30.
On Wednesdays, deliveries, Oakdale Head Start and Greater Hayes Church will be visited on January 10, and 24. The Soileau Fire Station and Oberlin’s Adam Park will be visited on January 17, and 31.
Thursdays will be the Oakdale Nursing Home, prison and Elizabeth Park on January 11, and 25. Coushatta’s E.D. Building is on January 18. Remember to check with the library for unforeseen closures due to circumstances beyond their control.
