View from the Library: Kitties and puppies at the park

Our annual Summer Reading Program is nearing its end. Join us for our final program at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 5 in Sacajawea Park with Karen Duty of Hellroaring Kennels and the Mission Valley Animal Shelter. There will be adorable puppies and kittens to cuddle while you learn about how to properly care for a pet. We will be presenting the animal shelter with supplies collected this summer. You can still bring supplies for the animal shelter that morning. Visit our website or call the library for a list of things they need.

The big Ice Cream Social and Prize Giveaway takes place at 10 a.m. Aug. 12 at Sacajawea Park. Be sure to get your reading logs completed and get your tickets in for the prize drawings by Aug. 7.

In-library programming is back. We have two great programs for you in August. August 5 at 5:30 p.m.

Local author James Thane will present “From Glacier to Blue Deer to Poisonville & Lakeside,” a look at some of the most important and entertaining crime novels set in Montana, at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 5. Thane is a mystery writer himself and his latest novel, “Crossroads,” is set in Kalispell.

At 5:30 p.m. Aug. 19, local historian Karen Dunwell will present “Busting the Monster Myth: Flathead Monster Reports & Sightings.” Karen will tell us about some of the sightings and share the history of the Flathead Monster. Both programs will have limited attendance, so come early for a seat. Chairs will be distanced apart. Masks are always welcome, but not required. Please call the library with any questions.

Mother Goose programs continue during the summer at 9:15 a.m. on Mondays in the library meeting room. These programs for babies, toddlers and their caregivers include stories, nursery rhymes and songs. This is a great opportunity for new parents to meet other parents in our community.

We still have life jackets available for loan. Borrowers must be age 18 or older and have a current library card in good standing. We have a small selection of sizes, and these are available for a seven-day checkout. Sorry, but no holds on these.

Our library board meeting night and time have changed. Regular meetings are now typically held the fourth Tuesday at 5 p.m. in the library meeting room.

Abbi Dooley is director of North Lake County Public Library in Polson.