The Zula B. Wiley Public Library used this summer’s reading program to help “Build a Better World”.   The unconventional theme hopefully allowed the library to affect some positive changes in the community. Events and programs were chosen to encourage small ways for individuals to display kindness, caring and respect.

There were 1,935 children, adults and teens signed up to be included in the summer fun.  Everyone was challenged with either a Literary Crawl Card or Bingo Card to donate to local charities and perform acts of kindness.  The library had bins in the lobby to make it easier to donate to our local non-profits including the Tri-City Animal Shelter, Bridges Safehouse, Hope Mansion and Cedar Hill Action Team.

Over four thousand children were entertained and educated by performances at the library.  They learned how to take care of the earth by performers “Dinosaur George” and “Lucas Miller, the singing zoologist”.  A Knight from the Medieval Times Show discussed how everyone could be strong and brave but also be courteous and honorable.

Adults attended several events including “A Cultural Food Showcase” which introduced them to experience foods loved by their neighbors.  Teens met weekly and were guided to care for the each other and the earth.  Reading lists were available to expand on the summer reading program theme.

A major part of the summer was bringing the “One Book, One Community” shared reading experience of the book Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman to the community.  The library partnered with the Cedar Hill Independent School District and Cedar Valley Community College to host and facilitate the monthly discussions around the themes of transformations of individuals when they learn to work together for the common goal of growing a garden.  These discussions will continue through the end of the year.   

 For more information about the Zula B. Wylie Public Library please call 972-291-7323 or visit the library’s website at www.cedarhilllibrary.org.