MIDDLE PHOTO : NICOLE RICE |
as they purchase books for school projects . … Literacy is especially important to us as well . We sell children ’ s books for very little money , [ and ] these funds pay for any expenses the library has .”
The Friends also sponsor the Butterfly and Fairy Garden , which Philippsen describes as a “ magical haven ” nestled on the southeast side of the library with meticulously curated gardens , as well as fairy houses and scenes for patrons to enjoy . The garden has mature shrubs and trees as well as drought-tolerant plants that attract pollinators , and the majority of the visitors are children accompanied by their parents , grandparents or caregivers .
“ The whimsy and the beauty of the garden lends itself to butterflies and visitors of all ages . The local community congregates in and around the garden from sunrise to sunset ,” Philippsen explains . “ Everyone delights in discovering the new monthly theme and decor in the garden .”
Hickam says the community as a whole can continue to support the library as it has been doing over the years simply by visiting the local branch , checking out materials , attending programs , donating books to the bookstore and spreading the word about the value the library brings to the community .
“ We were grateful for the support of the community in favor of preserving library services in Laguna Beach ,” Hickam says of the recent controversial discussion about potentially moving the library location . “ It is under the city purview to investigate and decide what they wish to do with the building going forward .”
Last April , the City Council approved a $ 4.29 million purchase of the land under the library building and promised the library would remain in its current location for now . The council also directed staff to negotiate with the county for a 25-year lease of the building , which is now in place , with the purchase money earmarked for reinvesting back into the library .
“ The local library is where anyone can come , receive guidance from the librarians and set out on a personal journey of research and discovery ,” Philippsen explains . “ A passion for learning is the kind of thing that arises from serious engagement with books , and it is this passion that cultivates a discerning and passionate community .” /
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Top and middle photos : A birthday party for city police dog , Cooper , brought the community together at the library . Bottom : a music class for kids at the library |
UPCOMING EVENTS Get involved by attending one of these community events at the Laguna Beach Library .
MAY 10 : A reading group will discuss the novel “ Horse ” by Geraldine Brooks from 5:30-6:30 p . m .; copies are available at the library service desk or may be downloaded as an e-book or e-audiobook .
MAY 18 : Read aloud to specially trained dogs in a calm environment from 3:30-4:30 p . m .; this event occurs on the third Thursday of each month .
JUNE 3 : Reading of winning entries from the 25th Annual John Gardiner Community Poetry Contest at 11 a . m .
JUNE 12 : Summer Reading Program Kick- Off and Ice Cream Social begins at 3:30 p . m . At 4:30 p . m ., The Ben Band , a family-friendly musical act , will entertain the audience with quirky , original songs .
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LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 77 |