Since I volunteer most Mondays at the library, I have met people from all over the world — Argentina, Africa, Paris, Israel, and many others (just have a look at our guest book!). But my favorite library patrons have always been local residents, who have the most interesting stories of all. Steve McLeod, whom we lost recently, was one of those. There have been several profiles of Steve which have emphasized his artistic abilities, but I would like to share the Steve the library knew. He would saunter in most Mondays, always with books to return under his arm — fiction and nonfiction alike. He never took very long to choose new books, and he always made the comment, “I’ll try these!” He was a most earthy, good-hearted man. On one winter afternoon when Steve was in the library, I was getting ready to close when a rather questionable individual came through the door. It was dark, beginning to rain, and for some reason I didn’t want to be alone in the library with a complete stranger. I took Steve aside and asked him if he would stay with me until I closed up. He did, very accommodatingly — and I’ve never forgotten the kind favor he did for me that evening. RIP, Steve, you are missed!

We are repeating our very successful youth reading contest this summer. Called “Catch a Dragon by the Tail,” it is aimed at children, tweens, and teens, with prizes throughout. Registration was June 12, but it’s by no means too late, as the contest doesn’t end until August 24th. Just check in at the library desk, and we’ll explain how the contest works.

The Fourth of July is just around the corner, surprisingly! We are eagerly accepting book donations at this time – the sooner the better! Spread the word by reminding your neighbors, relatives, and friends. We also need lots of volunteer help for our three day book sale, so if you’ll be around and have some time, stop in an see us during library hours. The sale this year will be Friday, July 3, Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5. We will need lots of help setting up Thursday, July 2. Call us!