The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Having fun, and learning, at the library

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There’s more than just books to check out

It won’t be long before school bells ring in a new year, but before they do, there’s still ample opportunity to have fun at local libraries during summer break.

Three-year-old Daniel Price uses his fingers as pretend binoculars, as he is shaded by a Tampa Bay Rays poster held by his grandmother, Paula Powell, of Zephyrhills. They were at the Zephyrhills Public Library standing outside, while Zephyrhills Police Department Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci gave people a chance to get a close look at his patrol car. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
Three-year-old Daniel Price uses his fingers as pretend binoculars, as he is shaded by a Tampa Bay Rays poster held by his grandmother, Paula Powell, of Zephyrhills. They were at the Zephyrhills Public Library standing outside, while Zephyrhills Police Department Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci gave people a chance to get a close look at his patrol car.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

There also are plenty of ways — besides books — to learn at local libraries.

For instance, people who wanted to learn more about the work that police officers do had a chance to do that on June 22 when Gio Marcacci, a patrol officer from the Zephyrhills Police Department, dropped by the Zephyrhills Public Library to talk about his job.

Police officers do more than arrest criminals. They’re often involved in community events, too. In fact, Marcacci saved a child from choking during the Zephyrhills’ Founders Day Parade.

During his visit to the library at 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, the police officer showed parents and children his handgun, flashlight and Taser, and gave them a chance to check out his patrol car, while explaining the various features.

From left, seven-year-olds Eli Morel and Nicholas Purcell, both of Zephyrhills, listen to Zephyrhills Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci as he discusses the items in his utility belt. Four-year-old Noah Purcell sits on the lap of his mom, Nicole Purcell, of Zephyrhills, as he listens, too.
From left, seven-year-olds Eli Morel and Nicholas Purcell, both of Zephyrhills, listen to Zephyrhills Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci as he discusses the items in his utility belt. Four-year-old Noah Purcell sits on the lap of his mom, Nicole Purcell, of Zephyrhills, as he listens, too.

Another summer break may be nearly over, but there’s still fun to be had at various local libraries. Of course, the fun doesn’t stop when school resumes. Libraries always have interesting offerings for their patrons. Check out the websites for the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC.org) and the Pasco County Library Cooperative (PascoLibraries.org), and search for events, to get a better idea of what’s available. There are programs for people of all ages and interests.

Meanwhile, here’s a sampling of some coming events:

Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes 34639

  • Join us to build some awesome projects with our new LEGO kits. For youths age 9 to 15. Call (813) 920-1214 to register. July 30, 10 a.m. to noon.

Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 33523

  • Free food, Pictionary and Monopoly. For youths in grades eight through 12. July 27, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

 Austin Davis Library, 17808 Wayne Road, Odessa, 33556

  • Calling all pirates and princesses: Journey with us through games and crafts as we discover all things needed in our castle. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. July 26, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Leah’s Cartooning: Learn how to draw and color cartoons with local artist Leah Lopez. The library supplies the materials. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by the Friends of the Austin Davis Library). July 28, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa, 33618

  • Pilot a quadcopter: For ages 8 and older. Must register in person, one hour prior to event. (Funded by Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library) July 26, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Fritzy Brothers One-Man Circus: Be entertained by juggling, unicycling and other circus activities. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library) July 29, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa, 33647

  • Wonders of Nature: See the free-flying behaviors of raptors and parrots and learn about conservation. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by Friends of the New Tampa Regional Library) July 28, 11 a.m. to noon; and, also from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. the same day.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz, 33548

  • Suds It Up: Learn how to make your own soap by choosing a mold that suits your style and adding your own fragrance and color. For youths in grades six through 12. (Funded by Friends of The Lutz Branch Library) July 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Published July 20, 2016

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