Creative Library Programs for all Ages in 2024

The Hernando County Public Library System is ringing in the new year with various fun and educational programs for patrons of all ages. From infants to adults, these free-of-charge activities offer something for everyone.

Parents and babies are encouraged to bond through the arts during baby time. “Bond with your baby through books, bouncy rhymes and songs in this lap-sit program that introduces early literacy skills and encourages language development,” stated an event description. “For children ages 0 – 18 months and their caregivers.” Space is limited, and registration is required for baby time.

“The East Hernando Branch Library at 6457 Windmere Road in Brooksville offers a baby time program on the first and third Friday of each month at 10:30 a.m.,” said Cynthia Loftis-Culp, executive director of the Hernando County Public Library System. “The first baby time program of 2024 will take place on Friday, January 19th. This baby lap-sit program is for parents or caregivers and offers a special time to bond with your baby through books, bouncy rhymes and songs.”

Aside from providing lots of fun bonding time for babies and those caring for them, baby time is intended as an educational session to develop early language arts skills in young children. “This program is designed to introduce early literacy skills and encourage language development,” said Loftis-Culp.

Those interested can register at https://hernandocounty.librarycalendar.com to reserve their spot for baby time. The class is filling up quickly, but a waiting list will be available once the session is filled.

2024 also marks the grand return of the Adult Coloring Program at the West Hernando Branch, 6335 Blackbird Ave., Brooksville, a staple of the library schedule that allows adults to release stress and express themselves creatively. As they apply their artistic touches to lovely preprepared illustrations, they can immerse themselves in a place of calm and serenity–coloring themselves into a corner, most literally and in the most positive sense.

“For adults 18 and older, a variety of coloring sheets, coloring pencils, markers, etc. will be provided for attendees,” stated an event notice. “They are invited to socialize while they find relaxation in coloring. There will also be instrumental music and a blend of essential oils to enhance the relaxation process.

Loftis-Culp invites the public to relax and take a break as they color their cares away.
“The library decided to bring adult coloring back so our patrons can enjoy a break from a hectic day and add a bit of mindfulness to their routine,” said Loftis-Culp. “Coloring helps to relax the mind and body by focusing attention on the act of putting colors on paper.”

All supplies will be provided at the adult coloring program. Space is limited, and registration is required. “We will provide an assortment of different coloring sheets, plus crayons and colored pencils,” said Loftis-Culp.

This year’s Adult Coloring Program began Jan. 9, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. and will continue monthly on the second Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. -12:30 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/hernandolibrary or https://hernandocounty.librarycalendar.com/.
Hernando residents are encouraged to add color to their lives by visiting their local library!