Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Slowin' Our Roll!

 Hello! October felt like a blur! Last month was probably the busiest month I've had in a long time, but it was sure fun. From Fall Fest to our Fundraiser, to THREE WHOLE WEEKS of bag book sales, the library was hopping! 

The Taste of Lower Providence was a full house! 
I'm still thinking about Cousin's Pizza's Cheesesteaks and 3 Star Diner's Vodka Sauce Pasta...

November and December are considered a "slow season" in the library world. People are preparing for the holidays and traveling, so I see a little dip in traffic. I love to take this time to organize and prepare for the next year. I also like to create some coziness for those who will still visit the library. Check out our seasonal community puzzle, season-themed displays, and my festive Desk Goose!

One of my favorite programs is Senior Social. On the fourth Friday of the month from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm, we gather for a little snack and an activity. We've had speakers, games, crafts, and more. The group is open-minded, friendly, and curious! We've gotten to do some really cool things over the years.

This year, the fourth Fridays for November and December fall on the day after holidays. While it may be easier to cancel the program, I feel it's important to have a space available for people who don't travel, don't have plans, or would simply rather come to the library instead of Black Friday shopping. I don't have a scheduled speaker/activity, but I will create a welcoming space for socializing. I'll have games, coloring, puzzles, and other things out to spark community. I love to use our smart TV to play "ambiance" videos. (This is one of my favorites) Registration is not required, but you're always welcome to let the desk know you're interested.

I can't believe we're already talking about the end of the year! I'm chipping away at my Fall TBR. I am currently chipping away at Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver.

I've had this book on my TBR for ages. I generally read more non-fiction. This book was so popular a few years ago, I'm finally jumping on the bandwagon! So far, I am enjoying it. What a colorful story with characters that are rough around the edges. I'm just waiting for a plot twist...each time I turn the page, I'm anxious to see what happens next.

I only have two more books on my Fall TBR. You can see my progress flyer at my desk! I'm already thinking ahead to my Winter TBR. I'm going to focus on my guilty pleasure: Middle Grade. While written for children, Middle Grade is excellent, take-a-load-off, easy reading. It's light and quick. If you are just getting back into reading or need something to turn the winter doldrums around, I highly recommend Middle Grade. My favorite authors include Katherine Applegate, Peter Brown, Gary Paulsen, and more! 

Finally, this is the time of year when we reflect on what we're grateful for. I am beyond thankful to serve this community and be a familiar face at your local library. I have met so many wonderful people in this role, and I consider myself very lucky to have LPCL be my professional home. 
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

See you around the library!

Manni McNeil




It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Where did the year go?!  It feels like just a month ago I was unwrapping my new paper calendar, and now I look at it and it's full of co...