By Taylor J. Hale

Staff Writer

PORTAGE COUNTY – County Public Library Director Larry Oathout sat down with Gazette staff to give an update on area libraries.

Blind Date with a Book

Readers have a chance to take home a shrouded book in hopes of finding a new literary companion. The books are wrapped like gifts, and readers choose one at random to take back and enjoy.

“It’s a fun way to find a new book,” Oathout said.

The books may be cloaked, but offer a brief description of what readers can expect. The library also provides an audio book version of the Blind Date program. Blind Date with a Book is scheduled at all Portage County library branches.

New Hardware coming to Stevens Point

Crews will be installing the Stevens Point library’s new self-checkout machines on Feb. 18. The installation should be completed in the same week.

The self-check machines will offer library-goers a chance to check out their items and avoid checkout desk lines.

Also, coming to the Stevens Point branch are reserve shelves. Guests will be able to request a book hold and pick it up themselves on the new shelving, reserved only for pickups. The addition will be located on the first floor.

Shark Attack!

The Stevens Point library’s Shark Attack night is coming on Feb. 15. Visitors can swim into the library for silly stories, songs and activities — all centered around sharks.

The free, family-friendly event is open to guests of all ages but is targeted for preschoolers. No registration is required. Sink your teeth into fun and stop by your local library today.