“Unlocking Adventure: Discover the Joy of Learning Through Library Programs!”

Escalon Library representatives are reminding all members of the community that the Winter Reading Challenge is ongoing throughout January, concluding on Friday, Jan. 31. Available to individuals of all ages, it offers a chance to maintain your reading skills during the winter and engage in the Winter Reading Challenge. All that’s required is to read books to earn rewards. Logs can be submitted either in person or online. The more you read, the greater your chances to win prizes. Visit the library located at 1540 Second St., Escalon, to collect your log and view the prizes. For additional information, check out the Winter Reading webpage.

There are also some unique activities on the library agenda for January, including an event for adults to craft a ‘Junk Journal’ on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Registration is mandatory for the 10 a.m. session. A Junk Journal is a handmade book composed of assorted items, typically using recycled or found materials and ephemera. The pages may be utilized for writing, drawing, painting, or documenting memories, thoughts, inspirations, and ideas. Junk Journaling offers a distinctive creative outlet and an opportunity to create a unique keepsake. Basic supplies will be provided, but participants are also welcome to bring their own materials such as magazines, paper, cards, etc.

Children will delight in an event scheduled for Friday, Jan. 10 at 10 a.m.; a lively Winter Mess Fest tailored specifically for kids aged one to four. Participants will engage in winter-themed sensory experiences ideal for getting messy while celebrating the winter season.

Registration is necessary for a special program taking place on Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 3:30 p.m., which is open to students in grades two through six. Join Escalon library and the Modesto Children’s Museum and brace yourself. This hands-on inquiry and engineering design workshop is packed with excitement as you delve into the engineering process, teamwork, and communication. After investigating the physics behind the excitement, children will construct their own marble roller coasters around chairs, over desks, and across tables. With an endless supply of flexible track, supports, and marbles, if you can envision it, you can design it, build it, test it, and redesign it until your coaster is ready to thrill.

On Monday, Jan. 27 at 3:30 p.m., volunteers have the chance to meet and read a book to a therapy dog. Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D) companions are certified therapy animals who accompany their owner/handlers as reading partners. Children and teenagers can enhance their reading and communication abilities in a special and enjoyable atmosphere, free from performance pressure and criticism. No registration is required.

Adults can participate in a holiday stress-relief session on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 5:30 p.m.; unwind and rejuvenate while listening to an audiobook and crafting a diamond-painted snowman coaster. Registration is not required. It’s first come first served with limited supplies.

Closing out this bustling month, the Student Garden Club has a meeting planned for Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 3:30 p.m. Assist in growing and maintaining the library community garden. Participants will gain hands-on experience in planting, cultivating, and harvesting while learning about sustainable gardening techniques. Together, they will create a lovely green space and contribute to the environment as well as the local community. The club is suggested for students in grades two through eight of all proficiency levels.

For further details regarding any of these programs or the regularly scheduled events like storytime, English conversation practice, chair yoga, and more, please visit the library.