Library keeps improving; the nation takes note

The Rapid City Public Library downtown received national attention in March when USA Today newspaper named it one of the top ten places in the nation to "find a nook and read a book." The article noted the library's sunny solarium, and spacious yet cozy feel. Since that article came out, the library has gotten better yet. The main floor got a recent refurbishment, with walls painted a warm chocolate brown to compliment new dark wood furniture and overstuffed chairs and benches. The redecoration and changes in the main floor layout are part of a bigger picture: a space use plan, being implemented in phases, to maximize the patron experience at RCPL.

At the newly opened north library (10 Van Buren St. - at General Beadle Elementary School) there is change on the horizon as well. On June 1st , the north library moves to summer hours. Since it opened in January, the north library has been open to the public after school and on weekends. From June 1st until August 31st, it will be open from 9 am to 7 pm Monday-Thursday, from 9 am to 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and from noon to 6 pm on Sundays.

As the end of the school year approaches, both libraries will be encouraging kids to "Catch the Reading Bug' as part of this year's Summer Reading Program. The Summer Reading Program is popular with kids and families every year as it inspires kids to keep reading and learning during the summer months, and adds in prizes and programs to make it that much more fun. Join us for Summer Reading kick-off day on Wednesday, June 4 (9:30 - 11:30 a.m. downtown; 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. north) with Mr. Toad and Mr. Frog followed by a series of bug-themed summer programs involving art, crafts, treats, prizes, exhibits, an outdoor family adventure, and a July appearance by Bob the Twister guy and his fantastic balloons. Visit www.rapidcitylibrary.org/SummerReading for a list of events, dates and times -- or to download a Summer Reading 90 day log.