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Public libraries are important part of any community.

Clark County Public Library is a place folks can go not just to pick up the latest thriller novel, but much more — anyone whose read John Maruskin’s weekly library column knows this to be true.

Because the library is so important and such a focal point in the community, the Winchester Sun’s vision is to promote the CCPL people and the events they organize.

For parents, this library’s superpowers include an active children’s program that includes storyhour and so much more. Thus we decided to learn more about Misty Strain, children’s librarian. She is the type of person who can change a child’s world by introducing them to reading, perhaps books like Dog Loves Books.

When is storyhour?
We have Story Time on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:00 am

What is your favorite children’s book? Children’s book to read?
That’s a really hard one! There is no way I could narrow it down to one title, but I love the Elephant and Piggie series by Mo Willems (one of my favorite children’s authors). One of my favorite books to read aloud is I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen. In fact, I want to use this title for a One Book, One County program in May to encourage everyone of all ages to read this book.

Why do you think children’s storyhour is important?
There are several developmental advantages that Story Time provides. The books, the songs, and the felt/magnetic board activities that we carry out in Story Time all develop and nurture preliteracy skills that prepare children to learn to read. There are social skills that are learned through sharing, interacting, and following prompts and cues given during the program. Story Time encourages imaginative play, sensory development, school readiness, movement, math and science skills, and a positive love of books that will hopefully follow them through life.

Do you guys have Legos kids can play with?
We have a collection of LEGOs that can be played with at LEGO programming.

What programming do you want to feature?
We are always working as a Youth Services team to develop new and exciting children’s programming. I am working on the aforementioned One Book, One County program that I would love to be a successful annual program.

What do you do for the library?
As a Children’s Librarian I am always striving to make the Library a safe, welcoming place where children want to come. It is also my goal to connect children with the right books for them, and foster a love of reading.

How long have you worked for the library?
I have worked for the Clark County Public Library for almost 21 years.

Lastly, what is the best part about working at the library?
The best part about working at the Library is being a part of connecting kids with books. That can take the form of reading aloud a book that a child really responds to, or giving the just right book to the just right child. There’s a book called Dog Loves Books by Louise Yates that says, “Dog loves books but most of all…he loves to share them!”. That’s how I feel. I really love to share the books I love.