Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country
Founded 05-05-05

National Library Week Is April 13 to 19

Watauga County Library Plans Special Events

Story by Celeste von Mangan

The United States observes National Library Week each year during the second full week of April, and 2008 marks the 50th anniversary of the weeklong awareness-raising celebration of all things library.

The Watauga Public Library has planned several events to celebrate National Library Week. This year’s theme is Join the Circle of Knowledge at Your Library.

Friends of the Library Meeting Sunday

A special Friends of the Library meeting on Sunday, April 13, at 2:00 p.m. includes a presentation by Boone native Preston Lane, artistic director, co-founder and director at the Triad Stage. Lane’s topics of discussion include the process of writing for the theater, exploration of the director and playwright, his collaborative work with Laurelyn Dossett and his interest in pursuing a revival of the regional voice in American playwrighting.

Balloon Lady April 15

On Tuesday, April 15, at 4:00 p.m. Donna Pruett—the Balloon Lady—promises to amaze and entertain both children and adults with her balloon creations. Last year, the popular Pruett made 63 appearances at a variety of venues. Her balloon sculptures are just a part of Pruett’s repertoire. Her show also features music, storytelling and engaging magic tricks. Known for being kid friendly, professional and loads of fun, this Balloon Lady has added new material and extra surprises to her show this year. Her award-winning creations prompted Pepsi-Cola to sponsor her when she represented the state of North Carolina at the International Balloon-Twisting Competition.

Bumper Sticker Contest

If you’re feeling creative, the library is holding a bumper sticker slogan contest. The slogan should relate to reading books or to libraries in general. Creativity will receive top priority from the judges who will select winners from two age categories: ages 6 to 16 and age 17 and up. The winner from each category wins $50. The deadline for entries is Saturday, April 19.

For more info about the library’s events, call 828-264-8784.

Want To Go?

What: Friends of the Library Meeting
Date: Sunday, April 13
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Location: Watauga County Public Library
Cost: Free

Want To Go?

What: Balloon Lady Show
Date: Tuesday, April 15
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location: Watauga County Public Library
Cost: Free