Intro
eGundo.com’s mission is to explore the good in Gundo. This week, we’d like to extend our gratitude to the El Segundo Public Library. Public libraries are too often taken for granted, but they deserve our appreciation through and through. In El Segundo, our library does more than simply provide reading material. Year round, the public library offers free classes, story time, homework assistance, a literacy program, and a summer book club. The library even offers a “shut-in” program, delivering books to disabled El Segundo residents who are unable to pick them up without assistance. All of these wonderful programs are strong assets to our community, providing a shining example of the Good in Gundo.
Why Reading Matters
Reading isn’t just important for grade schoolers. The public library allows El Segundo locals of all ages to reap the benefits of reading.
Many of us neglect to work our reading muscle, but putting aside our work to read for a few minutes a day is essential for a healthy brain and a well-rounded mind.
Not convinced? Just a few of the proven benefits of reading include:
- Stress reduction
- Improved memory, cognition, and focus
- Expanded vocabulary
- Improved analytical thinking skills
- Better writing skills
- A world of knowledge for free!
These impressive advantages are far from the only perks of our public library. Read on to learn more about what the El Segundo Public Library has to offer.
Free Summer Arts and Crafts and Computer Classes
Drop-In Programs
Love arts and crafts? The 2018 Library Drop-In program included a series of hands-on, educational activities. The series began in June and featured library staff and guest instructors teaching fun, free workshops.
There are a few more free classes coming up this month, so check out the brochure to see the available classes.
All workshops are free, supplies included. You’re welcome to bring your own supplies as well.
Free Computer Classes
This summer, the library offered several free computer classes to help residents brush up their skills or learn a new one. This season’s classes included:
- Photo Basics
- Excel Basics
- Intermediate Excel
- PowerPoint Basics
- Intermediate PowerPoint
Summer Reading Programs
Adult’s Summer Reading Program
This year’s Adult Summer Reading Program included exciting prizes and a wholesome theme: Change Your World @ Your Library. The library’s goal was to encourage being an active participant and leader within the community through volunteering, connecting with organizations in the South Bay.
Not only was the program good for our community, but it was also fun! To celebrate the program’s success, participants are invited to come to an ice cream social on Saturday, August 11th at Library Park!
Children’s Summer Reading Program
Kids were in on the summer reading fun, too! This year’s children’s reading program, “Reading Takes You Everywhere,” incentivized summer reading with goody bags. Activities were held weekly, and children are welcome to attend a party of their own on Thursday, August 9th at 2:45 pm. The event will take place at the Library Park gazebo and includes a festive juggling act! The last day to pick up grab bags is Saturday, August 25. Children under 8 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Special Events
In addition to the summer reading programs and drop-in classes, the library provides free monthly concerts on the third Saturday of each month at 2:00 pm from September to May. The concerts feature lively classical and jazz programs as well as culturally inspired music.
For those who miss Summer Reading Club, avid readers are welcome to join a book-of-the-month discussion from September to June. The free meetings are held on the last Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm. Both the concerts in the library series and the book-of-the-month club are held in the Friends of the Library Room.
Story time is also held year-round for toddlers and preschoolers, plus a Library Club for elementary school age children and a Teen Program for middle schoolers and up.
The complete library calendar is viewable here. Expect to see information on upcoming Fall Events soon! To register for programs or ask questions, call 310-524-2728.
Save at Local Businesses with your El Segundo Library Card
Another wonderful benefit of being a member of The El Segundo Public Library is thanks to their partnership with local businesses. To encourage both a love of reading and support the growth of small businesses, card holders are eligible for discounts at participating businesses.
Locations and Hours
EL SEGUNDO PUBLIC LIBRARY
111 W. Mariposa Ave.
El Segundo, CA 90245
Mon.-Thurs. 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Fri. & Sat. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sun. Closed
Phone: (310) 524-2722
High School Library Branch: Mon.-Fri. 7:15 am-4:00 pm
Middle School Library Branch: Mon., Tues., Thurs. 8:00 am- 1:00 pm; Wed. & Fri. 10:00 am-3:00 pm
Richmond Street School Library Branch: Mon.-Fri. 9:00 am-2:00 pm
Center Street School Library Branch: Mon. 8:00 am-12:00 pm; Tues.-Fri. 8:00 am-3:00 pm
