Now & Forever Chromebooks now available to borrow!
As a part of the $2.3 million awarded through the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) funds, the Georgia Public Library System has purchased over 7,000 Chromebooks and dispersed them throughout its 60 public library systems, the Thomas County Public Library System being one of those systems.
In an effort to support recovery of the learning loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chromebook program will assist in “replenish[ing] the connectivity and remote learning devices in our state’s public libraries, make[ing] a huge impact in the many rural areas our libraries serve,” said Vice Chancellor for Archives and Libraries and State Librarian Julie Walker. Not only are the Chromebooks beneficial to students who may lack the access to learning technology outside of the classroom, but they greatly benefit workers and job seekers who may also lack access to such digital resources.
As of March 13th, each of the TCPLS libraries house Chromebooks available for public use. Twenty-two (22) Chromebooks are available at the main Thomasville branch and at each of the outlying libraries, in Boston, Coolidge, Ochlocknee, Meigs and Pavo, between four (4) and five (5).
The Chromebooks check out to any patron with a valid PINES library card who is at least 18 years or older (unless a parent or guardian is present to authorize the check-out). Each Chromebook comes equipped with ChomeOS, which includes all the applications within Google Workspace, including word processing, presentation building, spreadsheets and email. Each Chromebook has a loan period of two (2) weeks. Though they are not renewable, another Chromebook may be checked out if available when the first is returned.
In tandem with the availability of Chromebooks, the Thomasville headquarters also has five (5) hotspots available for public use. The hotspots follow the same borrowing policy as the Chromebooks and assist in providing additional digital connectivity to those in the community who are without.
“We are looking forward to an amazing response from our patrons,” says Circulation Manager, Joanita Cook. “The hotspots have been checking out since day one!”
Photo caption: Circulation Manager, Joanita Cook (pictured right), checks out one of the library’s new Chromebooks to a library patron.
Programs for Adults
Book to Art Book Club
Tuesday, March 14, 3:00pm
Our book club brings the art out of literature. The Book to Art Book Club meets once a month to discuss a shared read and create a unique piece of art inspired by the book. Call or stop by the Thomasville Library circulation desk to join or email Samantha Hanchett at marketing@tcpls.org.
Beginner Yoga
Wednesday, March 15, 9:45am
An introductory yoga class that moves slowly through a simple vinyasa sequence, focusing on alignment and breath while working on strength, balance and flexibility. Great for beginners to yoga. Yoga supplies available to those without.
ESL MeetUp
Saturday, March 18, 10:00am
Learn to speak conversational English with native and fluent speakers. If English is not your first language and you or someone you know would like to increase their understanding, join us for this free class! We are also looking for volunteers interesting in assisting with the course. For more information, contact Marketing + Outreach Coordinator, Samantha Hanchett: 229-225-5252/Marketing@tcpls.org.
VITA Assisted Tax Filing
Tuesdays, Feb 7 - April 18. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.
Volunteers from the IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program will be will be offering free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals. These qualifications include:
-People who generally make $50,000 or less;
-Persons with disabilities; and
-Persons 65 years or older.
Appointments must be made via phone or in person with our Reference Desk. Call 229-225-5252 for more details.
Friends of the Library Used Book Sale
Every Tuesday, 10:00am - 5:00pm
Our Friends the the Library used book store is open every Tuesday, from 10am to 5pm. Here, you will find hardbacks, paperbacks, DVDs, magazines, puzzles and more. All softly used and in good condition. Nothing over $5.00. All proceeds are used to help fund library programs and materials.
Library Board Meeting
Monday, March 20, 1:00pm
The Board of Trustees of the Thomas County Public Library System will hold a regular Board Meeting on Monday, March 20, 2023 at 1 PM at the Headquarters Library in Thomasville. Open to public attendance and comment.
Public Art Exhibits
Bloom In To Art: An Art Show
Feb 21 - March 31, Henry Flipper Meeting Room
The Pines & Palms Annual Member Exhibit has a new date!
Stop in and enjoy the original artwork from members of the Pines & Palms Artist Association. Free to view during open hours. On display in the Henry Flipper Room, Feb 21 – March 31. Artwork is available for purchase through PinesAndPalms.org.
Programs for Youth
Story Time: Toddlers + Tykes
Thursdays, 10:30am
Join us every week in the Children's Department for an hour of stories and fun! Enjoy a few great books, sing songs and recite rhymes designed to enhance the literacy of your child. Every Story Time is wrapped-up with a fun, simple art + craft project. An excellent space to meet others in the community!
LEGO Club
Thursdays, 4:00pm
Calling all kid LEGO masters and first-timers! Our LEGO group meets every week to create and build whatever they can imagine. A great place to meet and mingle with other children interested in 3D creation. We also offer larger LEGO bricks for those who may find the smaller bricks tasty. Intended for ages 4-11 years with their caregivers.
PROGRAMS AT OUR BRANCH LIBRARIES
Boston Library -
Arts + Crafts Activity:
Tuesday, March 14, Drop-In Activity
Activity today: an edible St-Patrick’s Day craft. For more information, call the Boston Library: (229) 498-5101.
Quiddler Club
Every Tuesday, 2:00pm
Every Tuesday the Quiddler Club meets to socialize and enjoy a few rounds of the word-card game, Quiddler. The object of the game is to get points by combining the lettered cards in your hand and make words.
To join or have any questions answered, call Suzanne Moore at the Boston Library at 229-498-5101.
Coolidge Library -
Art for Teens
Tuesday, March 14, 4:30pm
Paint With DiamondsTM sticker-by-number bookmarks.
Creating a Butterfly Garden
Wednesday, March 15, 3:00pm
Sydni Ingram, Agriculture Agent with the UGA Extension Agency, will be in sharing the “how-to’s” in creating your own flourishing butterfly garden. Learn what plants best attract these delicate pollinators and what best to avoid when designing such a garden.
Ochlocknee Library -
Art for Adults
March 13 - 16, Drop-In Activity
Activity this week: sand art terrarium. Complete in the library or at home.
Free Sherbet Floats
Thursday, March 16, Drop-In Activity
Drop in anytime during open hours (1:30 – 6:00pm) for to make your own free St. Patrick sherbet float. We have all the supplies available to made this tasty rainbow treat.
Pavo Library -
Creating a Butterfly Garden
Tuesday, March 14, 2:00pm
Sydni Ingram, Agriculture Agent with the UGA Extension Agency, will be in sharing the “how-to’s” in creating your own flourishing butterfly garden. Learn what plants best attract these delicate pollinators and what best to avoid when designing such a garden.
Story Time + Craft: St. Patrick Edition
March 13 - 16, Drop-In Activity
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