Joomla Login LightBox powered by WowJoomla.com

Liberty’s library has a few secrets up its sleeves.

In the middle of a hot, hazy summer, the staff at Liberty’s Mid-Continent Public Library branch are working hard to make their building the cool, dry place to be for community members of all ages.

About 90 people from toddlers to older adults attended a magic show Friday morning, July 9, at the library. Books about magic were displayed on a table while David Astry and his wife Connie Astry performed illusions and card tricks.

The Astrys, a Lee’s Summit duo self-styled “Ace and Bunny,” were loud and boisterous. But there was no “shushing” from the librarians, even when a real white rabbit made its appearance at the end of the show.

For Library Assistant Tracy Maddox, supervising the scene from nearby, it was a good example of the kind of entertaining and educational programming that has transformed the library into a regular destination for a lot of residents.

“It gives the kids a sense of wonder about the library,” Maddox said. “If you give the library a sense of fun, they’re going to realize it’s not just a quiet zone.”

Aside from magic shows and other events aimed at children, the library has summer reading programs for young readers and teenagers. There are book displays for National Grilling Month, sports and “crafty things to do.” Near the library entrance, material was bundled in books on subjects like colors, bears and numbers.

Amid the old-school printed materials, a bank of computer work stations is regularly full with library patrons seeking help with things like job resume and small business advice.

It’s all drawing people into the library so they realize everything that’s available and become regular patrons, Maddox explained.

“Once you get their interest, they’ll keep coming back,” she said. “We’ve stepped away from the role of strict librarian to being an ambassador of knowledge.”

Summer programs have proven very popular this year at the library, Maddox said. A magic show the day before the Astrys performed was attended by 173 people.

“There are tons of people who come here again, again and again,” Maddox said. “This is a hoppin’ spot.”

Ann Morrison was at the Astrys’ magic show with her three children. The library has become a common destination for Morrison’s family during summer break.

“We make this a regular destination,” Morrison said. “It offers a variety of entertaining and interesting things to do, and it’s great how they integrate the summer reading program.”

Librarians like Maddox still act as bridges to books. The display of magic books would quickly be checked out after the show, she said.

“We have the book out to incorporate our collection into the programs. We spend a lot of time planning those displays,” Maddox said. “It’s just to generate interest in the library and try to get people, especially children, ready to use everything else we offer.”

Maddox was also pleased by the wide spectrum of age groups represented by the audience. It’s critical for the library to help connect generations, Maddox said.

“We’re always happy that these programs are aimed at all generations and not just a specific group of people,” she said.

Staff writer Ray Weikal can be reached at 389-6637 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed