Beyond the Bookshelf
August 2025 Newsletter
We are thrilled to announce that Cheryl Dobbs will be joining us as our new Library Director! Cheryl comes to us from Greenwood Public Library, where she has spent the past 21 years of her career, 14 of those as Executive Director. Her leadership, vision, and dedication to libraries are truly inspiring. We look forward to the future of the library under Cheryl’s guidance and can’t wait for our patrons to meet her!
Cheryl's first day will be Friday, August 1st. We are so excited to welcome her to our team!
Middle Grade: Dream by Barbara O'Connor
Advanced Reader Review
Dream, the standalone companion to Barbara O’Connor’s Wish, is scheduled to be released on August 26. Our youth book club kids are counting down the days (they gave Wish a solid ⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!). We were lucky enough to grab an Advanced Reader Copy, and trust us—you’re going to laugh, cheer, and maybe even tear up a little. This heartwarming adventure is full of big dreams and best friends, including Charlie, Howard, and of course, Wishbone. 🐾
This one’s perfect for fans of Wish, heartwarming adventures, and stories that make you smile long after you turn the last page. Parents, I dare say you’ll enjoy this one just as much as they do!
Picture Book: The Worry-Worry Whale Made 32 Mistakes by Deborah Diesen
The Worry-Worry Whale Made 32 Mistakes by Deborah Diesen, the author of The Pout-Pout Fish, is a sweet, encouraging picture book about turning worries into confidence. Little readers will swim along with Willa as she learns that mistakes aren’t failures—they’re an important part of trying, practicing, and growing. Parents might find themselves reminded of that too!
Perfect for kids (and grown-ups!) who need a little boost of courage when learning something new.
Young Adult: Embrace the Serpent by Sunya Mara
Embrace the Serpent by Sunya Mara is a romantic fantasy packed with magic, danger, and impossible choices. Caught between a cunning Serpent King and his rebellious huntsman, Saphira must navigate a deadly game where love and survival are on the line.
This book is perfect for teens (and parents who love YA too!) who are looking for a lush fantasy with high stakes, romance, and plenty of twists.
Full STEAM Ahead
Toddler Tales
This weekly story time is perfect for toddlers through preschool age children. They'll enjoy five key practices to foster early literacy: talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing.
Elementary Book Club
This August, our Elementary Book Club is reading Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus by Barbara Park! Join Junie B. as she starts kindergarten and discovers that riding the bus might be the worst part of all. With her big personality and laugh-out-loud adventures, Junie B. is sure to win over readers of all ages. Join us on Tuesday, August 12 at 4:00 P.M. to talk about the book and participate in themed activities.
Teen Back to School Luau
Hey teens! Say “aloha” to the new school year at our Back to School Luau on Saturday, August 2 at 3:00 PM! Hang out with friends (and meet new ones!), decorate your own bucket hat, enjoy tasty snow cones, and play fun tropical-themed games. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer in style!
NEW Teen Book Club: Books and Bites
Dive into an epic story and enjoy a tasty treat inspired by the book!
August Pick: Caraval by Stephanie Garber dives into a once-a-year magical game where the audience becomes part of the show and everything turns dangerous when a key player is kidnapped. Now, the race is on to navigate a dazzling world of love, secrets, and spells before time runs out.
Join us to discuss this months book and enjoy a tasty treat on Tuesday, August 26 at 4:30 P.M.
