Library link

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008

With the current slow economy, the public can find some relief at the library. Free services range from using the Internet and computers to checking out DVDs and books. Patrons can save gas by using the library from home via www.stmalib.org. They can renew their items, download movies and audio books and even receive help from a librarian. They can use online databases to find information such as small engine and auto repair, legal forms and consumer products as well as to learn a new language — all free.

Opening reception to be held for local artists

The public is invited to an opening reception at Lexington Park Library Art Gallery on Aug. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. to meet the Artful Codgers, a group of local artists whose artwork is on display through Sept. 15.

Summer programsdrawing to a close

Children are encouraged to complete their summer reading activities and return to the library to claim their prizes.

Summer story times end today, Aug. 6, and will resume the first week of October. Fall program flyers are available at the the three branches.

Parents and caregivers are reminded that TumbleBooks are available from the library’s Web site. This online collection of animated, talking picture books for beginning readers is a great resource.

Plant clinics offered

The Master Gardeners continue to conduct drop-in plant clinics to answer gardening questions. August clinics are scheduled at Leonardtown from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 12 and 26; at Charlotte Hall from 10 a.m. to noon on Aug. 16; and at Lexington Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 19.

Teens invited to movies

Teens can watch ‘‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” with other teens tomorrow night, Aug.7, at the Leonardtown branch. The movie starts at 5:30 p.m. and is planned by the Leonardtown TAG (Teen Advisory Group).

A representative from emergency management will speak on emergency preparedness at the next TAG meetings and explain how the teens can become community leaders and help inform others.

Charlotte Hall’s TAG meets on Aug. 12 at 5 p.m. and Leonardtown’s on Aug. 14 at 5:30 p.m.

A free teen writing workshop is scheduled for Aug. 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lexington Park branch. Teen fiction author, Amber Lough, will conduct the workshop. Registration is required.

Book discussions set

Area residents are invited to drop in for any of the following book discussions: Doris Kearns Goodwin’s book, ‘‘Team of Rivals,” will be discussed at Lexington Park on Aug. 11 at 6 p.m.; Michael Chabon’s book, ‘‘The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay,” on Aug. 21 at 7 p.m. at Leonardtown.