PODCAST - On the WGNS Action today, our guests discussed a variety of activity taking place at the Smyrna Branch of the Rutherford County Library System. In studio with host Scott Walker were Cass Taylor and Catherine Brown, who highlighted a phenomenal resurgence of the Pokémon Club, which has quickly become one of the most highly anticipated events at the library. Drawing up to 600 enthusiastic kids a month, the club provides a safe, structured environment for local youth to trade cards, play video games, and build a strong sense of community. The hosts keep the energy high as they marvel at how seriously both kids and adults take the game, noting the intense passion of collectors and how community partners have stepped up to help run official training sessions for the children.
During the second half of the show topics shifted to the diverse array of hands-on, out-of-the-box educational programs the library is bringing to Middle Tennessee. The guests highlight the highly anticipated "Super Gross Science" class, a STEM-based program where kids will eagerly dive into making slime and constructing their own dry-ice comets. Walker and his guests also delve into the heartwarming "Tails to Tales" reading program, which pairs children with certified therapy dogs to help build their literacy confidence by reading aloud to a non-judgmental, cuddly audience. The episode beautifully illustrates how the modern library has evolved far beyond quiet reading rooms into vibrant community hubs filled with gaming walls, comic clubs, and interactive learning opportunities for all ages.
On a side note, Catherine Brown recently stepped in as the new Youth Services Coordinator to roll out a fresh plate of engaging fall programs
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Smyrna Public Library
400 Enon Springs Rd W,
Smyrna, TN 37167
Phone: (615) 459-4884
