Literary love affairs: February's bookish attractions

In the enchanting realm of storytelling and exploration, I, Millie Hopkins, am thrilled to embark on a journey with you as your interim library director.

I will be your guide through the vast landscapes of language and literature. This introductory column serves as a window into the world of words that I am passionate about, a glimpse into the pages of my own narrative and the world I love to share with you all.

I have worked at the library for six years, starting as the youth services library assistant and ending in the director’s chair. I moved to Ritzville in April of 2017 when the library was at the high school while it was being remodeled to add the elevator.

When the library moved back, I was excited to see the inside of a Carnegie Library still used as a library with original shelves. The first time I walked into the Carnegie building, I fell in love.

I always brag about our library because it is so unique and unforgettable. I was so excited when I heard I got a job at the library I started dancing in the aisle at Walmart. Being able to work at this library was a dream come true. I did not know it then, but this library is why my family and I moved to Ritzville.

When COVID-19 hit, and the library had to close, it was difficult because what I loved best about my job was no longer.

I did not get to play with the kids anymore; I was doing live social media programs and talking to myself all day. While things slowly opened back up and we gradually got back on our feet, we saw a director or two come and go but it is with much excitement that I announce that our programs are back to being fully open.

The doors are wide open, and we invite you to be a part of the celebration. Join us at any one of the many exciting things going on in February!

On Friday, Feb. 1, we are celebrating Take Your Child to the Library Day, which thousands of libraries across the globe celebrate. It is a way for families to spend some time together and discover the enchantment of the library. Join us for a whimsical celebration where the world of books meets the enchanting sweetness of Candyland from noon to 5 pm. There will be different stations around the library where we will have fun activities and crafts.

Each staff member picked a book for their station; I am using the “BFG” by Roald Dahl and will make dream bottles with the kids. There is also “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” with a Guess What is in the Box and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” with a chance to win a golden ticket.

“Alice in Wonderland” also makes an appearance, which has a fun card game with a teatime snack and “Pop! The Invention of Bubblegum” with a giant bubble gum machine!

Are you ready to experience the thrill of the unknown, the excitement of a surprise, and the joy of discovering a hidden gem? Say hello to the most enchanting blind date you’ll ever have- a rendezvous with a book that promises mystery, excitement, and the magic of story.

We are doing our annual Blind Date with a book all month. Come down and find the one with the catchiest ‘pickup line’ and take it home. For me, any cheese line will do because I am easy.

We have different genres, from romance to suspense, poetry, adult westerns, and more obscure options. Some are donations we did not add to the collection that we know you will fall in love with and get to keep. In contrast, others are library books that we would love to hear all the dirty details of your ‘date’ when you bring them back.

If roses and romance are not your thing and you are tired of the heart-shaped cliches and lovey-dovey gestures then join us for a night of rebellion, laughter and unapologetic fun at our Anti-Valentines Day Party for adults.

Not everyone has a date for Valentine’s Day or even really cares about the “Day of Love.” Well, if that is you, then we got you.

Come down on that black Wednesday and celebrate not being in love with other like-minded people because sometimes love stinks.

We will have some fun games and food. Adults only, meet us at the library at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14, and celebrate your freedom from the shackles of Cupid’s silly arrows.

As the frosty days of winter melt away, a new chapter unfolds at the Ritzville Public Library. March promises a treasure trove of literary delights, engaging events, and opportunities to connect with stories that will captivate your imagination. Join us here again in anticipating the exciting literary journey that awaits you in the upcoming month.

— Millie Hopkins is the interim library director. Email her at [email protected].