The Vidor Library packs the calendar of events for YOU
Published Sunday 19 March 2023 00:04
Sarah Screws, employee of the Vidor Public Library, walks through the stacks. (Photo courtesy)
VIDOR – The Vidor Public Library offers a variety of onsite resources including books, eBooks, magazines, computer stations, a children’s room, a youth room, a genealogy room and more in the form of reading programs and workshops.
Officials just closed a children’s used book sale where readers could buy used books for as little as 25 cents.
Win a book stand
The library is currently hosting a drawing for a handmade book stand by 1 of 99 Woodcrafts. For a $2 donation you can be entered for a chance to win the custom oak stand. Proceeds help fund the summer reading program.
“The reading program is something my kids have been a part of for many years,” says Chris Screws, owner of 1 of 99 Woodcrafts. “I enjoy woodworking and saw an opportunity to give back to my community. It was so much fun doing it.”
Chris Screws stands with the book stand he built and donated to the Vidor Public Library. The fundraising campaign runs until March 31st. (Photo courtesy)
The wood used is not just any old wood you bought from your local lumber company. This old local oak tree has history.
“Blown down by Hurricane Rita, the family had it and several giant pine trees cut down and used to rebuild their home. Then, years later, Harvey came along and it was time to rebuild,” said Screws. “This time they went with newer materials and this old oak was destined for the burn. Then I had a chance to pick up some of it before it got there.”
The raffle for the book stand is on March 31st.
“I’m excited to breathe new life into this old oak tree,” said Screws. “I hope it serves the winner for a long time!”
Cookies & Coloring
In April, the library hosts a “Cookies & Coloring Group”. Participants are asked to bring their favorite cookies, cookie recipes, an adult coloring book, and paints.
A former Cookies and Coloring group enjoy (from left) Sue Lloyd, Clarice Armstrong and Becky Welch. (Photo courtesy
“If you don’t like baking, you can still paint and socialize,” said Lynn Hartfield, associate director of the Vidor Public Library.
This is the second time the library has hosted this tasty program.
“The idea came from a desire to reach out to our community,” Hartfield said. “Many libraries run community outreach programs.”
Fresh start, healthier you
After all those cookies, you might think it’s time to start eating healthy, but how?
In May, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Magan Lee’s event, A Fresh Start for a Healthier Life, can help.
A Fresh Start for a Healthier Me is hosted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Magan Lee. (Photo courtesy)
The four-part program, also sponsored by Health and Human Services, focuses solely on nutrition and ways to make better choices without spending big bucks.
“During our sessions, we will discuss food safety, how to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet, as well as ways to save at the grocery store,” Lee said. “In each session we will do a food demonstration for attendees to try different, healthier foods.”
Attendees will also go home with the tools and knowledge they need, from quality kitchen gadgets like cutting boards, measuring cups and plenty of recipes.
Lee said this program has been around for many years, but she’s excited to bring it to the community while bringing her own flair to things.
“I hope that those who participate will feel empowered to live healthier lives,” she said. “Nutrition is impeccably important, but I feel like the rising cost of food these days is discouraging many. Participating in this program will help people understand that they don’t need to spend big to make better food choices.”
Summer reading
The mission of the Summer Reading Program is simple: get kids reading.
This year’s theme, All Together Now, includes weekly guests offering a variety of programs and activities on Wednesdays from 10am to 11am
“Summer reading is important to a child’s ability to retain information from the previous school year and grow in knowledge for the year ahead,” Hartfield said.
Children must read 20 books to win one of the grand prizes.
There are grand prizes for age groups 1-5, 6-12 and 13-16.
“Any kids who complete the minimum of 20 books get an award,” says Hartfield.
Children do not need to be able to read to participate in the programs and participation in the program is free.
The library is located at 440 E. Bolivar St. in Vidor and is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. is a senior hour for those 55 and older).
For more information, call 409-769-7148.
— Written by Chrissie Mouton
The Vidor Public Library just completed a children’s used book sale where readers could buy used books for 25 cents. (Photo courtesy)
