The Crestview Public Library has been celebrating National Poetry Month. If you have been reading our column or following us on Facebook, you have read about some of our events.
On April 18, we celebrated National Poem in Your Pocket Day. Library staffers submitted poems, or collected friends’ poems, and we made scrolls and tied them with different-colored ribbons so poems could fit in the recipient’s pocket. We distributed the poems to all library patrons.
Brightening our visitors’ day with some inspirational, funny or fun poem is our way of making each person’s visit to the library special. We also presented a display of poetry books that adults or children would enjoy. Two of my favorites for children are my Staff Picks for this week.
STAFF PICKS
“Stepping Out with Grandma Mac” by Nikki Grimes
Author Nikki Grimes writes insightful poems about her grandmother, a modern woman who is not the type to stay home and bake cookies. Her grandmother is ready for adventure — not a rocking chair. This is a must-read.
“Hip Hop Speaks to Children: a Celebration of Poetry with a Beat” by Nikki Giovanni
This anthology teaches children about rhythm and elements that make up hip-hop, rap and African-American poetry. Kids will enjoy the rhyme and rhythm. A CD is included with poems spoken by Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooksand others.
Upcoming Events:
Lawn Care in Northwest Florida:10:30 a.m. May 7, with Larry Williams. Best management practices to make growing a Florida lawn less frustrating.
INVESTMENTS 101:6-7 p.m. Mondays through May 20. Taught by financial adviser Joe Faulk. First 20 to reserve a seat and attend the first class will receive free workbooks. Attend any or all classes: Take Stock in the Market, IRAs: Retirement Can Be Less Taxing, A Smart Start to Mutual Funds, Focus on Fixed Income, Tax-Free Investing and Retirement by Design. Call 682-4432 for details.
Jean Lewis is the Crestview Public Library's director.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: CHECK IT OUT: Poem in Your Pocket Day at library