Category: Library News

General News

MPL Invites Community to Open House Unveiling Future Plans

Library News

 The Marshall Public Library is thrilled to extend a warm invitation to the community for an Open House event on Monday, April 22nd, from 4 to 7 pm, at the Marshall Public Library, 214 N. Lafayette Avenue. This event marks an exciting milestone as the Board of Trustees will be revealing architectural renderings of the proposed new library.

The Open House promises an engaging opportunity for community members to connect with the library’s vision for the future. Light refreshments and snacks will be provided, fostering an atmosphere conducive to lively conversation and collaboration.

“At Marshall Public Library, we are committed to serving our diverse community with resources and experiences that educate and enrich lives across life’s journey,” said Library Director Matt Rahner. “This event is a testament to our dedication to providing a safe and welcoming space where individuals can access knowledge, collaborate on ideas, and receive exemplary service.”

The Board of Trustees, alongside Library Director Matt Rahner, and other esteemed members, will be present to answer any questions regarding the library’s future plans. This is a free event open to all, and we extend a warm welcome to everyone interested in shaping the future of our community.

For more information, please contact Matt Rahner at matt@marshallmolibrary.org or (660) 886-3391.

We look forward to your presence at this significant event and your valued contribution to our vibrant community.

Flyer that invites the public to our open house event.

Get Free Books Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Library News

All Missouri children under five years old are now able to register for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. There is no deadline to register. The Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by providing age-appropriate books each month to children free of charge.

In order to receive books, a parent or guardian must register their child on the Imagination Library national website. Books will be mailed directly to the homes of registered children every month.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has already been available in some areas of the state thanks to the great work of the 57 local affiliates that distribute books to more than 17,000 Missouri children. Those children currently registered will be automatically enrolled in the new statewide program.

The statewide expansion of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library was made possible through Section 178.694, RSMo, and $11 million included in DESE’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget for the distribution of books.

Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 200 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community or State Partners.

The Imagination Library mails more than 2.6 million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five – at no cost to families. Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More and Be More.

The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit ImaginationLibrary.com

Growing Together in Our Backyards

Library News

MARSHALL, February 20, 2024 – Marshall Public Library is delighted to announce a captivating series of evening programs aimed at fostering a sense of community and promoting the joys of experiencing the outdoors. Titled “Growing Together in our Backyards,” this program series will feature local experts sharing their knowledge on various aspects of gardening, landscaping, and backyard activities.

The series kicks off on Thursday, February 29, at 6:30 with “How does my garden grow?” presented by John Carton. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced gardener, Carton will provide insights into maximizing your backyard space for a bountiful harvest without overwhelming maintenance.

Isabelle Guthrey takes the stage on Thursday, March 14, at 6:30 with “I think that I shall never see a poem as lovely as a tree.” Offering guidelines on planting lasting yard features, Guthrey will delve into the selection of tree varieties suitable for our climate and essential considerations before planting.

On Thursday, March 28th at 6:30, Carter Fawkes will explore the buzzing world of bees with “What’s that buzz?” This program will provide practical beekeeping tips while emphasizing the critical role bees play in our ecosystem.

Janet Bryan invites attendees on an off-site adventure on Thursday, April 11, at 5:30 with “For the beauty of the earth.” Participants will gather at the library before heading to Bryan’s backyard on Brunswick St., where a variety of flowers will serve as the backdrop for learning how to cultivate a beautiful flower garden.

Concluding the series on Thursday, April 18, at 6:30 is “Here a cheep, there a cheep; cheep, cheep,” presented by Kristi Butner. Sharing her experiences as a backyard chicken and duck farmer, Butner will provide tips on raising these feathery friends and anecdotes to keep the audience entertained.

All programs are free and open to the public. Marshall Public Library encourages everyone to join and discover the joys of growing together in our backyards. For more information, please contact Library Director Matt Rahner at 660-886-3391.

Promotional Flyer for the Growing Together Series

Chess Extravaganza: Join the Fun at Your Library!

Library News

Get ready for some chess excitement at your library! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, we’ve got two fantastic opportunities for you to showcase your skills over the chessboard.

1. Homeschool Chess Club:
Every Wednesday from 11 AM to 12 PM, join our Homeschool Chess Club for a fun-filled session of strategic moves and friendly competition. It’s a perfect way to enhance your chess skills while connecting with fellow homeschoolers in a welcoming environment.

2. All-Ages Chess Club:
Wednesday nights are all about chess at the library! From 5:30 PM to 6:45 PM, bring your family and friends to our All-Ages Chess Club. Whether you’re a chess prodigy or a casual player, this is the place to be for an evening of chess, camaraderie, and enjoyment. All skill levels are welcome!

Don’t miss out on the excitement—join us for engaging chess games that bring our community together. We look forward to seeing you at the library for strategic moves, laughter, and the joy of playing chess with fellow enthusiasts!

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, MPL to close for the Holiday.

Holiday Hours, Library News

Marshall Public Library will be closed Monday, January 15th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. His National Holiday falls on his actual birthday this year! King Jr. was born on January 15th, 1929. Explore the fascinating history of creating Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a National Holiday with this article from the National Museum of African American History & Culture.

 “To me, [King] is the outstanding international leader of the 20th century without ever holding office. What he did — I doubt anyone else could have done.” Bill sponsor, Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.), on King’s legacy.

Pre-registration Begins at Library for Slot Car Event

Library News

If you’re a fan of high-speed action, then you’re in for a treat. Marshall Public Library is excited to present an evening of Slot Car Racing at Samson R/C Hobby Shop. Located at 925 N English Ave, Marshall, this event is set to take place on Friday, 27th October, and promises to be a thrilling night for all ages.

Slot Car Racing has been a beloved pastime for decades. The thrill of the race, the strategizing, and the camaraderie among participants make it a unique and engaging hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or new to the track, this event is your chance to engage in some friendly competition and perhaps even ignite a new passion.

The event is structured to allow everyone a chance to participate and is divided into age-specific races starting from 6:00 pm. The youngest racers, aged 5-11, will kick off the evening, followed by the 12-14 age group at 6:30 pm. Teenagers aged 15-17 will take to the tracks at 7:00 pm. And last but not least, adults 18 and over will bring the night to a thrilling close with their race at 7:30 pm.

The races are sure to be high-energy, and the atmosphere will be electric as racers vie for the finish line. The event will conclude at 8 pm.

Best of all, entry to this exciting event is completely free with registration. Interested participants are encouraged to register at the Marshall Public Library by Wednesday, 25th October. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a memorable evening of speed, strategy, and fun.

So, get your engines ready and prepare for a night of exhilarating Slot Car Racing at the Samson R/C Hobby Shop. We look forward to seeing you at the starting line!

Matt Rahner is Our New Library Director

Library News

Last month Marshall Public Library’s Board of Directors approved the contract to hire Matt Rahner as the new director. He has been serving in the role since August 1st.

“I am thrilled to be able to serve the Marshall community,” says Rahner. “I strongly believe in the mission of the Marshall Public Library, and look forward to working with the staff, board, and community to strengthen and adapt the library’s services to the needs of the Marshall community.”

Rahner earned his Masters of Fine Arts degree at the University of Missouri of Columbia, and a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College. For five years he was a professor in Fine Arts at Missouri Valley College, where he was also director of the Morris Gallery of Contemporary Art.

Rahner was born in Maryland, but grew up in Columbia, Missouri. He is currently a freelance photographer and has exhibited his work nationally and internationally.

“We are excited to have Matt on board to lead the library into an exciting time with many new opportunities,” says board Secretary Brooke Linsenbardt. “Please join us to say hello to Matt and to learn about our exciting plans for the library.”

In April, the board announced it had purchased the building at 102 E. Morgan St. and will be moving after renovations are made. As director, Rahner will facilitate the transition into the new building.

MPL Purchases New Building With More Space

Library News

The Marshall Public Library has purchased the building on the southeast corner of Morgan and Jefferson, made possible by a Gordon Buckner Estate trust. For the time being, Powerhouse General Store will remain a tenant under a new lease agreement with the Library.

Our staff is enthusiastic about this future location as it has better visibility, more space and natural light. The Library’s trustees, acting director, and staff are working with Sapp Design Architects to design the new library space.

We will be scheduling community meetings to learn more about the wants and needs of local citizens. Past surveys have shown the community would like reading rooms, computer access, a set aside bookstore, a coffee shop, tutoring and training services, and spaces for music lessons, open mic sessions, and a variety of other community meetings and presentations. Documenting community input will be the guide for programming and design of the new library space.

Meanwhile, the library will continue to operate in its current location in the basement of the City Offices at 214 N Lafayette Ave.

English As 2nd Language Classes / Clase de Inglés Como Segundo Idioma

Library News

We have had recent inquiries from patrons asking about classes to learn English. Now the First United Methodist Church is conducting free English as Second Language classes for adults Tuesdays and Thursdays 6 – 8pm. Teachers are Christina Benitez and Rebecca Hernandez.

They offer beginning and intermediate level classes for adults. Location: Youth Rooms at the First United Methodist Church, 225 E. Arrow in Marshall.

Child care is not provided.

We thank First United Methodist Church and Pastor Vessel for sponsoring this much sought after service!

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