Clinton Library to host nature and wellness challenge

Watkins Lake State Park and County Preserve, photo by Tamara Denby

submitted by Tamara Denby

We are truly fortunate to live in Michigan, home to the longest freshwater coastline in the world, four Great Lakes, thousands of smaller inland lakes, state parks, county parks, Metroparks, local and township parks, several rivers, walking/cycling trails, and more! So, is it any wonder that the staff of the Clinton Library, in its role as a community center and springboard for discovery, education, and exploration, would wish to encourage our community members to take full advantage of our brief but beautiful summer season?

What does that mean? We’re glad you asked!

The Clinton Library has designed a simple Nature & Wellness Challenge for all ages. Come in, get a challenge slip for yourself and/or your children, and complete any 4 activities on the list. Not only will you have fun completing the activities — which range from tasting a new vegetable to shopping a farmers’ market to taking a nature walk — but you can turn in your completed slip for a chance at a prize. Children will receive one small prize for each completed slip turned in. Adults and teens will be entered in a drawing for a grand prize. And, yes, for those who are especially motivated — or just love being outdoors — you may complete more than one challenge slip to increase your chances of winning. Want details? Come in or call (517-456-4141)! While you’re there, check out our special Nature Activities display, chock-full of brand-new books about fun outdoor activities to do with children, how to make and use natural dyes and inks, and more.

Of course, that’s not all the Clinton Library has on its calendar for August. Our regular programming, including book clubs for all ages (dates/times vary), Thursday morning story times (11:30am), writing club (Aug. 5 at 4pm), and weekly T(w)een Times (Wednesdays at 2pm), will continue through August.

Lastly, we have a special hands-on program for adults and teens this month. “Natural Dyes: How-To” will be offered on two dates/times for your convenience. Attend one or both; it’s up to you: Tuesday, August 16, at 5:30pm, and Friday, August 19, at 12pm.

As always, all our library’s programs are open and free to anyone who would like to participate. A library card, registration, or proof of residency is not required. Full details for our events can be found on our Events calendar (https://www.clintontownshiplibrary.org/events) or Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/CTPL.Lenawee).

Once more, the Clinton Library staff would like to thank you, our community, for the opportunity to serve you! We encourage everyone to visit, make use of our electronic resources, and/or participate in our programs. Should you need help, we are only a phone call or email away: 517-456-4141 or clintonlibrary@clinton.lib.mi.us.

by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.