Baltz Library of Chatsworth Township Article

From the Pontiac Daily Leader

Jan.22, 2015

By Mare Reardanz

CHATSWORTH--Some of our unsung heroes work right here in Chatsworth.

The Baltz Library of Chatsworth has so much to offer because the library board has approved many new activities for the first quarter of the year.

"Now that we have more room and this beautiful building, it is exciting to plan activities and parties for all ages." librarian Karrie Painter recounted. "We are beginning to plan a Valentine's Day party for adults. There will be dinner, games and prizes on Friday Feb. 14, from 6 until 9 pm here at the library."

"The board also approved a community garden to be located on the library grounds. Residents can plant and maintain a tilled area for crops of their choice. Any surplus produce can be sold at the Home Grown Chatsworth Farmers Market or donated to the Livingston County Food Bank. There will also be a children's gardening program complete with instructions for learning how to garden. The children will benefit from seeing how the food we eat grows and literally reaping what they have sown.

The story hour for children of ages kindergarten through second grade continues on Wednesdays from 3:45 to 4:45 pm.

Students from third through seventh grade will begin an introductory book club at the same time in a different room in the near future.

"Circulation has increased dramatically since the opening of the new library last September", librarian Norma Koerner said, "We used to check out about 300 books per month, and we are now up to and exceeding 1,000 books. That is quite an increase in such a short time. We have new books coming in regularly."

The library is not just the books it houses. It encourages everyone to expand their knowledge in every dimension. There are ample computers with Wi-Fi. Videos both for entertainment and instruction are available and an experienced staff will answer questions.

It is hoped that there may be classes offered on computer usage and first aid/CPR, to name a few of the special activities.

Library Director Mary Fisher-Miller and her staff, Norma Koerner, Karrie Painter and Zach Holt are truly the super heroes of the Library. Who knew their super power is reading?