Published: December 30, 2009 08:00 am      

Library reading program brings warmth to winter

EFFINGHAM — Cold and dreary winter months can mean little sunshine and a sluggish mood, and for some, that means staying at home and avoiding the outside world.

But Helen Matthes Library in Effingham is trying to help those who dread the winter months with their winter reading program, “Be Inspired. . . Be Inspiring.”

The is the library’s second winter reading program, and Catherine Bailey of the library said the program is perfect for those who are looking for things to do after Christmas and the New Year.

The library is hoping to educate the community on the different resources it offers, such as books on tape or DVD’s. Bailey feels the program is a perfect way to show what the library has to offer, especially since a library card is not required to participate in the program.

Some of the activities include reading a biography, completing an hour of volunteer work and watching an inspirational movie. Each activity completed is rewarded with small treats, such as coupons or items from local retailers.

Bailey said although volunteer work for an organization is preferred, library patrons can do other things to help and inspire those around them. For instance, a teenager could help prepare a meal at their house or they could read a book to an elderly person who cannot go to the library.

“We thought people could be inspiring in other ways,” Bailey said.

The libray wanted to help find opportunities for those participating in the program by offering an inspirational film series and a book discussion group. The film series features movies such as “Field of Dreams” and “The Rookie,” and the book discussions include “44 Scotland Street” and “Love Finds You in Sisters, Oregon.”

Those who complete all the tasks in the program are entered into a grand prize drawing to win one of two items. The first prize is from Rhodes to Health Chiropractic and is worth $480. It includes a consultation, examination and follw up visits for the start of healing and observation periods. The second prize is a $50 gift certificate to Got 2B Scrappin’.

Bailey said the library is offering other activities in the winter that are connected to the winter reading program, such as a heart health tasks program and a healthy cooking program.

And altough it is an adult reading program, Bailey said all ages are encouraged to participate to rid themselves of the winter blues.

“This for people for all ages and backgrounds,” Bailey said.

The winter reading program runs Jan. 11 through March 1 and a library card is not necessary to participate. To sign up, visit the library’s check out desk or information desk. For more details, go to www.effinghamlibrary.org or call 342-2464 ext. 2.

Samantha Newburn may be reached at 217-347-7151 ext. 131 or samantha.newburn@effinghamdailynews.com.