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Heroes, balloons and books … for discussion

5 min read

For the first time in a few years, the July offerings for adults at the Cape Coral Library provides two opportunities to discuss books the first at the Friends of the Cape Coral Library general meeting, July 18, at 9:30 a.m., when coffee, treats and conversation take place before the meeting and then a discussion of books, which attendees are encouraged to discuss and recommend to fellow readers. The public is welcomed and encouraged to attend this Friends’ meeting.

The second opportunity for an adult book discussion occurs Tuesday, July 28, at 9:30 a.m., when “Books and Banter” provides a forum to discuss a favorite book among fellow book lovers. It’s an unusual month for some lively book discussions along with recommendations.

And then there are the offerings for the younger group kids, tweens and teens of wacky, wonderful programs including balloons, heroes and Japanese drumming (registration for these entertaining programs is required):

Beginning with teens, the first special offering is:

Thursday, July 2 at 3 p.m.: Battle-Bots: Working in teams, teens will design, build and deploy individual creations in a head-to-head style arena battle. It’ll take some smarts to beat the competition. But you’re up to it. Just remember: Register.

Other offerings include most ages:

Wednesday, July 8 at 6 p.m.: Japanese Drumming. This absolutely fun program about Japanese culture introduces Tampa Taiko discussing the history of Taiko drumming, (the music of Japan), Taiko drum building and a modern drumming performance. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library, registration (either on-line or at the Library) is required.

Monday, July 13 at 1 p.m.: Mad about Minions. Making crafts inspired by the “Despicable Me” Minions is the feature of this program for tweens (ages 10-12). Be sure to register, as supplies are provided.

Wednesday, July 15 at 6 p.m.: Karen Climer’s Crazy Balloon Show. This new, interactive Climer caper includes storytelling, magic, ventriloquism and balloons but you’ve probably never seen a balloon of this size. Expect Climer to do her usual caper with this huge balloon just don’t expect to know how she does it. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library, registration is required because there are so many wanting to see what Climer will do next!

Tuesday, July 21 at 2 p.m.: The balloon island adventure: Every Hero has a Story. Showtime for Kids presents this magical, funny adventure. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library, be sure to register.

Wednesday, July 22 at 6 p.m.: Heroes: The Event of the Summer. Study the powers of storybook, historical and modern-day heroes during this action-filled show of magic, music, puppets, balloon artistry and Sydney the parrot, by 9th Period Shows. Sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library, be sure to register.

And remember:

Baby Rhyme Time and Family Story-times, English Caf, Chess Anyone and Crafts Corner will continue throughout the summer. Many of these are sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library.

Check the Lee County Library System’s website at www.leelibrary.net for continuing programs.

In the art gallery in July:

A solo exhibit of paintings and sculpture of wildlife created by local artist Joel Loeper will be on display in the art gallery from July 1 through Aug. 2. Loeper’s exhibit is entitled “30/30/30,” a representation of 30 years of work, featuring more than 30 oil paintings and more than 30 clay sculptures. A love of animals, especially those found in the wild, are the focus. By his exhibit, Loeper hopes to reach others with an understanding of the wonders of gorillas, manatees, tigers, sea turtles and other endangered animals. Loeper’s artwork has appeared in many publications and has been exhibited in local galleries including Tampa, Bradenton and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. His work can be viewed at www.wildlifepottery.com

Cape Coral Library Hours

9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. (Library will not be open July 4.)

Getting a library card is free and easy. Just visit library.lee-county.com to apply online or stop by your library.

All Lee County Library System programs are free and open to the public. A sign language interpreter is available with 48 hours’ notice. Call the Deaf Service Center at 461-0334 (voice) or 461-4348 (TTY). Assisted living devices are available. The Lee County Library System also offers free access to books, DVDs, videos, books on CD, electronic resources and other items from a vast collection.

The Lee County Library System makes it possible for people who ordinarily couldn’t visit the library to enjoy reading through the Bookmobile, Books-by-MAIL, Talking Books and Literacy programs.

All of the money the Friends of the Cape Coral Library raise is through book sales, dues and other events which are used to purchase materials, furniture and other items that can not be included in the County library budget. Books, CDs, DVDs, etc. are accepted throughout the year for the two book sales, April and November, the major fundraisers. Small quantities can be delivered to the library circulation desk. Books can also be picked up at your home if you have a large donation which is tax deductible. (A receipt can be provided.) Leave a message on hotline: 349-2572 or e-mail capefriends.org.

Patty Duncan for the Friends of the Cape Coral Lee County Library, 921 S.W. 39th Terrace, Cape Coral; 239-533-4500; TTY 485-1141.