Derrian Goebel-Special to the Sun

The Kern County Library system was recently awarded $1 million, which is earmarked for the purchase of books. The funding is good through June of the fiscal year, according to library supervisor Peggy Hickey. The libraries in Kern County will use this funding to bring more books to the count, and the libraries need to increase circulation. If a person needs to get online, but does not own a computer, anyone can visit the library computer for one hour at a time. Also, the library has a fantastic website, www.kerncountylibrary.org offering an immense portal of information.

The "Ask Now" section lets a person e-mail a librarian directly and get a response answering any question. The "News Bank" keeps people up to date with the latest news and information, and the "Electronic Resources" section is good for people who need help with tests for civil service jobs. Ther site has many informative resources. Story Time has become a popular event each month at the Kern River Valley Branch Library April's program will be “The Adventures of Skippyjon Jones” at 3:30 p.m. on April 19. This month, story time falls on the third Thursday to recognize National Library Week and all children attending will receive a free book courtesy of the Friends of the Kern Valley Libraries. Come dressed as your favorite superhero and win a prize. Skippyjon Jones is an imaginative Siamese kitten who, when sent to his room for time-out, goes into his closet and becomes the superhero ‘Skippito the Chihuahua' who saves the day for his amigos the Chimichangos. This series of books, written by Judith Schachner, have won the E.B.White “Read Aloud Award” and are a favorite of the Library staff.

April is also National Poetry month and Young People's Poetry Week. The Library offers many books for reading and writing poetry. With more books, great activities for kids, and an incredible web-site, the library is one of the best places to visit in the Kern River Valley. When kids need to get reports done, or a person needs to create a resume, when there is any need for information, the Kern County Library is the place to go.