Photo by Brittany Nunn
If you find that the rest of your July is open, the Lakewood and Skillman Southwestern Branch libraries have you covered. These branches of the Dallas Public Library programming team have put together an assortment of activities whether you want to beat the heat inside or maybe even jump right into it with others.
As of this year, each branch of the Dallas Public Library system has its own programming specialist dedicated to the creation of events that reflects the interests and demographics of their respective community.
“Each branch has a specific set of standards that they have to hit,” Skillman Branch Library Programming Specialist Caitlin Hughes said.
Those standards include the incorporation of educational programs for children who have gaps in-between their school years as a result of summer break. Younger children are incorporated as well, with events that are designed to be stimulating and enjoyable for preschool and infant aged children alike.
Slowly but surely, the number of attendees has started to grow.
“It has been getting more consistent,” Hughes said. “We’re starting to get some regulars.”
The programming teams also work to collaborate with other organizations for partnerships. One partnered event happening this month is the In The Kitchen With Dallas Public Library event with Common Threads.
Lakewood Programming Specialist Candice Cogburn shared that figuring out what works for their demographics is a series of trial and error. A large part of the decision making is choosing activities and times that can include everyone, especially as communities are seeing more flexible work environments.
“It’s just trying to find that new balance of people working from home or trying to get here from where they live, their hobbies, things like that,” Cogburn said. “I think as far as engagement with programming- it’s coming back.”
Check out just a few of the events you’ll be able to join-in on starting this weekend until the end of the month.
Lakewood Branch Library
For The Kids
For The Adults
For Everyone
Check out the full calendar here.
Skillman Southwestern Branch Library
For The Kids
For The Adults
Check out the full calendar here.
