Brooke County announces upcoming library events
WELLSBURG — Several activities and events have been planned at the Brooke County Public Library in the coming weeks.
Some of the programs are offered weekly, while others are only for that one special day each year.
For example, did you know that on the first Saturday during February, thousands of libraries across the world will celebrate Take Your Child to the Library Day?
For those who have ever looked for an excuse to introduce the young people in their life to the library, this would be that day.
Residents are encouraged to bring their child to the library on Feb. 7 for a variety of activities that will take place between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Enjoy stations inside the River Room that will feature crafts, coloring, LEGO’s, STEAM and more. A 3-D Pen Fun activity will be held in the Tutor Room.
A family movie will be shown inside the Vincent Room, including popcorn and water.
Play and Connect using toys and games will be showcased in the Children’s Room of the library.
“Or, people can just pop in to hang out with our librarians and a great collection of books, movies and more,” library officials stated. “We would love to see you at the library where you are always welcome.”
• The library is offering a weekly Tai Chi class that is instructed by Mike Turrentine. Classes are held at 11 a.m. every Monday in the River Room.
Tai Chi is a moving meditation in the form of a series of gentle exercises that create harmony between the mind and body, library officials noted.
The hour-long class is free of charge. Participants are asked to wear comfortable clothing. Registration is not required.
• The library is offering a Play and Learn activity for those between the ages of birth and 6 years old, although all ages are welcome to attend.
Play and Learn takes place every Saturday between 10:30 a.m. and noon in the Children’s Room.
Why play? According to library officials, some parents may feel stuck at home during the earlier stages of parenthood.
“As a parent, being part of a community activity can help you feel less alone because you are amongst peers,” staff stated. “Children will have fun, make friends and grow in their social skills.”
Those attending will have the opportunity to play, build, socialize and learn together using a variety of toys and games which help to develop hand-eye coordination and STEAM concepts.
Parents or guardians must provide direct supervision, as the program is not led by library staff. Toys will be set up and torn down by volunteers. No registration is required to participate.
• For those who enjoy playing the tile game Mah Jongg, the library is offering free play during Mah Jongg Fridays.
Stop by and join in the fun from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and bring a set of tiles, should you have them. Anyone who would like to learn how to play can contact staff and they will make sure someone will be on hand to assist you. No registration is required.
• An evening Explore and Learn Storytime with Miss Kim event will be held at 5 p.m. Feb. 5 at the library. Children will enjoy listening to a story and take part in hands-on activities.
Limited spaces are available/ Those interested in attending should call to register.
• The Brooke County Public Library and the Wellsburg Library is offering Geri-Fit classes for older adults. The 45-minute, evidence-based, strength-training exercise class consists mostly of bodybuilding exercises performed while seated in chairs and using a set of light dumbbell weights.
As participants become stronger, they can advance to using heavier dumbbells to challenge themselves even more, officials noted.
There is no dancing, aerobics or choreography involved to learn the movements.
Enrollment in open to men and women of all ages and fitness levels who will work at their own pace.
The Geri-Fit lifestyle change program helps increase muscular strength, improve balance and coordination, boost motor skills and reaction time, enhance flexibility and gait, lessen arthritic conditions and manage chronic disease, officials stated.
Geri-Fit video fitness classes are held from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Follansbee Library, located at 844 Main St. in Follansbee.
Classes are held from 8:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays at the Brooke County Public Library, located at 945 Main St. in Wellsburg.
Participants will need to bring a set of 2- or 3-pound dumbbells, a stretch band and drinking water.
The class size is limited. Advanced registration is required.
To register for Geri-Fit, call Harless, director of educational programs, at the Brooke County Public Library at (304) 737-1551, Ext. 106.
For information or to register for any of these activities, call the library or visit its website at brookecountylibs.org/events.


