LIBRARY PROGRAMS HAVE SOMETHING TO OFFER ALL

     April has arrived and with it an assortment of programs is being offered by Fern Ridge Library that should appeal to many, particularly those who love books or who love creating them. But there are also offerings for those who want someone to share their hobby with, those who love art, and those who might need support or who want to learn something new.  Of course, being tax season, there is even time to get your taxes done by a volunteer through AARP.

MONDAYS
April 1st & April 15th
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers assistance with the preparation of taxes to anyone no matter their age. However, all appointments at Fern Ridge Library have been filled but those still in need of help can obtain it at other locations in Lane County, with some locations offering walk-in services. To learn more, please call 503-512-9702 or visit LaneTaxHelp.Zendesk.com.

April 8th & April 22nd
NAMI aka The National Alliance on Mental Illness offers a confidential peer-led support group free of charge for adults. NAMI-trained facilitators lead the group and focus is placed on empathy, a sense of community and productive discussion. April 8th’s meeting is scheduled from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. while April 22nd’s is scheduled from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Meetings are held in the Konnie room and those in attendance are asked to enter through the side door. For more information, https://namilane.org/support-and-education/

WEDNESDAYS
April 10 & April 24th
Ridge Writers meet in the conference room from 4:00 until 6:30. This group is for wordsmiths who would like to be in the company of others who share their interest in writing. The session begins with a prompt and there is also time for critique. Those in attendance are free to bring what they are working on and share with the others in a welcoming, nonjudgemental atmosphere.

April 10th & April 17th
This is when the Hobby Hangout meets. Running from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., this is a chance for artists, crafters, makers, gamers, builders, thinkers and others who find joy in creating to bring their supplies and enjoy working together on their various projects. Hobby Hangout meets in the Konnie Room and is open to those 18 and older. The library has an assortment of free materials and tools to use along with plenty of space for people to spread out and enjoy themselves.

THURSDAYS
April 4th, April 11th, April 18th, and April 25th
Walk & Talk meets up every Thursday morning in the courtyard at 9:00 a.m. and participants then go for a walk that ends at 10:00 a.m. A path is chosen as is a pace and discussion centers on what those in attendance are currently reading and the neighborhood. This is an easy stroll that is accessible to all and all are welcome.

April 18th            
The non-fiction book club meets from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. The topic is “Logic.” Mr. Spock depends on logic, but so do we when we work on puzzles, make decisions, use statistics, science, math, economics, and reason. There will be a discussion in the conference room and staff members look forward to meeting you. Next month’s topic will be “(May) flowers.”
April 25th
The Long Tom Watershed Council will offer a presentation on Home Septic Maintenance & Monitoring. Chrissy Lucas-Woodruff from OSU Extension will be sharing information to help homeowners prevent a catastrophic failure of their septic system. Participants can bring in a ½ cup of untreated water in any container to see if their septic might be leeching into their well and drinking water system. The presentation runs from 5:15 – 6:30 in the Konnie room and those interested are requested to register at longtom.org/homeseptic, though registration is not required.

FRIDAY
April 19th
An artist’s reception will be held for Melissa Sikes from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the ArtSpace where those in attendance can meet her and discuss with her the work she has done while enjoying light refreshments. Originally from Carmel, California, Sykes has lived and created art in Eugene for nearly 30 years. Her subject matter and style vary but for this installation she has chosen to share her “Day of the Dead” images in an outstanding showing of her art.

SATURDAY
April 6th & April 13th                                                                         
AARP will again aid in the preparation of taxes these two days.

April 20th
The Friends of the Fern Ridge Library has their quarterly meeting from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. This is an excellent way to become more involved in the library and the Friends will welcome you and your ideas.