A Note from the Director

Autumn reading challenge at MV Library

 

 

September means Labor Day and that means it’s a wrap for our Summer Reading Programs. We had great participation for many of our activities and challenges! Look for the next adult reading challenge to happen in late January. We already have a theme and some great prizes lined up, but if you have an idea for a challenging activity we would love to hear your suggestion!

 

We are doing another Autumn Children’s Challenge this year beginning September 1 through October 31. Every time your child reads (or you read to them) a Bear book by Karma Wilson they can color one of the quilt squares on their reading log. When they’ve read twelve books, bring their log to the library to be entered into a drawing for Bear’s quilt. Books must be checked out from our collection, open to ages birth to 9 years. 

 

We appreciate our patrons and area businesses who sponsored our Summer programs;  West Plains Bank, Simmons Bank, Andrea McNew of Shelter Insurance, WBG Western Boutique, The Angel Garden, Betty Hockman CPA, Brown’s Farm & Garden, Countryside Propane, Woolsey Enterprises, Angela Ledgerwood CPA, Viandel Vinyard, Amanda Weakley of PaperPie Books, Kenneth & Maxine Horgan, SuEllen Price, and Tom & Mary Foval. We would also like to thank Mountain View Rotary Club for sponsoring the visit from Dickerson Park Zoo and the friends and family of Jane McLaughlin whose generous memorial donations sponsored our visit from Mad Science of Greater Kansas City.  We would also like to thank our Friends of Mountain View Library group.  Without their dedication and hard work we would not be able to carry out our activities and programs. 

 

Do you know that September 11 is National Day of Service and Remembrance? Recently I heard a bit of conversation about our need to feel needed. To have purpose in our days. According to a 2024 blog by Gilda’s Club Minnesota; “Research reveals that serving others activates the brain’s reward centers, releasing what scientists call “the fantastic four” hormones:

 

Endorphins: These “helper’s high” hormones create feelings of euphoria and reduce pain.

Dopamine: The “feel-good” hormone that boosts motivation and pleasure.

Oxytocin: Known as the “bonding hormone,” it strengthens social connections and builds trust.

Serotonin: The “pride hormone” enhances mood, self-esteem, and a sense of accomplishment.   

                

Together, these hormones counteract stress, promote emotional resilience, and create a profound sense of well-being.”   

         

Sometimes the most compassionate thing we can do is allow someone else to serve us.

 

Sabrina Cornman, Mountain View Public Library Director