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I am extremely excited about something happening in June and July at the library! Drum roll please…. Our summer reading celebration is themed Reading Renaissance!

First, what the heck does Renaissance mean anyway! I have some vague memories of this word being mentioned in college, and of course when we were living in Germany. As a family we attended all types of Renaissance themed fairs and events. “Renaissance” according to Britannica.com is a French word simply meaning “rebirth.” This makes sense on many levels considering Europe was finally coming out of the devastation caused by the Bubonic Plague.

I am so glad I wasn’t alive during that time in history! The revival of health, art, literature, science, and politics that occurred during the Renaissance Era brought beautiful works from such well-known people as Leonardo Davinci, Michelangelo, William Shakespeare, and Jeffrey Chaucer to name a few. There are various displays at both the Hope and Columbus branches with materials to learn more about the above-mentioned people as well as many other Renaissance themed questions you may have.

If you have not had the opportunity to check out a Renaissance themed fair, then come join us at the Hope Square from 4 to 6 p.m. June 4. There will be a jester wandering around performing tricks, free sno-cones, and games such as: Archery (foam arrows), Quest for Four, and Battle Tower. Crafts will be available for you to create a Dragon’s eye pendant or keychain, a fire breathing dragon, an alchemist’s bag, and a chance to build your own castle. Everyone will be able to sign up for summer reading event as well.

The BCPL Renaissance Faire at the LEX (Library of Experience) will be from 4 to 7 p.m.  June 14. There will be a magician, animals from the Utopia Wildlife Rescue, a Mandolin Orchestra performing in the forum, and an opportunity to learn all about a knight’s armor!

So, if ye miss the merriment, not to worry for you can sign up for the summer Reading Renaissance program by logging in at mybcpl.beanstack.org or grab a paper tracking sheet at any Library branch now through July 26. All participants in this program will win a BCPL Summer Reading T-shirt or tote bag and will be entered to win some fun raffle prizes!

There will be many other events, scavenger hunts, and community partnered programs for all ages through the end of July at both library branches. Make sure to pick up a program guide at one of the service desks to find out about all these happenings and more! Fare thee well, I shall see you anon!