LIBRARY OFFERS EDUCATIONAL FUN

Looking for a fun way of getting your preschooler interested in reading?

The Riverside Regional Library at 204 S. Union in Jackson offers just such a chance. Three times each month the library offers its "Storytime" program when young children can come to the children's section of the facility, see a puppet show or other entertaining presentation and listen as children's librarian Lynn Farrow reads from children's books.

Generally held on the Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of the third week of each month, Storytime is open to children of all ages.

"I have no age restrictions because I think a child can listen to a story at any age," said Farrow, adding that toddlers and parents can often be found among the children attending Storytimes.

"Usually, I start the program by telling the children and parents about the new children's books that we have," Farrow explained. "I also describe some of the other services we offer. Then we might have a fingerplay and I'll read two or three children's books.

"I usually try to pick out stories that the children can participate in, for instance, by making the sounds of the animals," she added.

Storytimes are attended by both parents and children. In addition, local preschools often bring their pupils to the readings.

The next Storytime at Riverside Regional Library is scheduled for March 13, 14 and 15 beginning at 9:30 a.m. Stories to be read are St. Patrick's Day related and include "St. Patrick's Day," "Little Bear Marches in the St. Patrick's Day Parade" and "Jeremy Bean's St. Patrick's Day." Children from throughout the county are invited to attend.