Big Piney Branch Library receives contribution from EnCana
Funds will support the Summer Reading Program
by Big Piney Library and EnCana Oil and Gas joint release
March 26, 2009
(Big Piney) – For five consecutive years, EnCana Oil & Gas (USA) Inc. has contributed funds to the Big Piney Branch Library for its Summer Reading Program.
"The goal of the Big Piney Branch Library is to increase the quantity of our lifelong learning habits," said Jeannie Lockwood, of the Children’s Services department. "It’s our mission to provide an engaging, yet comfortable environment, where self-expression is encouraged and children and patrons can meet their educational, informational and recreational needs."
"The Summer Reading program promotes education and fun," said Terry Bly, EnCana’s Jonah Operations Field Leader. "It offers our youth the confidence to expand their horizons, stimulate their imagination, and develop their minds in a goal-oriented atmosphere. It’s a terrific activity that centers on the family."
Although the Summer Reading program is focused on children in pre-school through 5th grade, it encourages students of all ages to simply pick a book up and enjoy what it has to offer.
"Over time, people have lost their skill and passion to read," said Bly. "That’s a shame because reading helps our mental development and language skills. Reading is an indulgence, a healthy addiction, and it’s our responsibility to instill that perception in our children."
According to Lockwood, several artists will be facilitating workshops during the program including the New York Story Crafters, fiddler Kelly Wells of Powell, watercolor artist Ruth Rawhauser and potter Matt Gunenthner, both of Big Piney.
"We are excited for these artists to share their knowledge with the children and spark curiosity in new areas of interest," said Lockwood.
Children attending the program will also learn about different art mediums such as quilting, beading and other craft activities that support this year’s theme, ‘Get Creative at Your Library.’
"We are the only organization in our community that offers a Summer Reading Program," informed Lockwood. "It has been a huge success for many years, and we would like to continue to improve this program."
The five-week program begins June 17, with a kick-off by the Story Crafters. Students can sign up at the Big Piney Library to join.
"In addition to EnCana’s continuous support, several local organizations volunteer their time to our program," said Lockwood. "The Conservation District, Forest Service, local Veterans, senior citizens and other local businesses have visited the children. We really try to use our community to the fullest, educating our youth is truly a community effort."
|
