Warm Up Your Winter

Written By: Luke Osteen | Issue: 2017/01 - Winter

Sometimes it seems like the entire Cashiers community has gone into a long winter’s nap.  Part of that is a reflection of the fact that many second-homeowners have fled to warmer climes.  Part of it’s derived from the fact that most tourists still haven’t discovered the sublime beauty of the landscape in the midst of winter.

Whatever the reasons, Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library stands as a time-tested tonic for the winter blues. 

Though its patron base certainly diminishes in this slow, slow season, the library remains the center of community life.

That means that residents can attend free showings of recent movies every Thursday at 3:45 P.M. Titles range from mysteries to period dramas and from gauzy romances to explosive action pieces.  The library’s Meeting Room is equipped with an ultra-modern projection and sound system and the seats are decidedly comfy.  Free popcorn and bottled water are part of the deal. 

Everyone is invited to join weekly Mah Jong games every Wednesday at 1:00 P.M. That means that all skill levels are welcomed and the emphasis is on fun and friendship.

Duplicate Bridge games are staged every Tuesday at 1:00 P.M. in the library’s Meeting Room. The games are sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

For children in the community, there’s a Storytime Hour every Wednesday at 11:00 A.M.  Kids of all ages are invited to join in Lego Club, the second Tuesday of every month at 3:45 P.M.  The library provides the Lego and children may work on their own designs, although Youth Services Director Melanie Golden is always happy to provide guidance and ideas. 

In a similar vein, Crafts for Children is staged at 3:45 P.M. every fourth Tuesday.  There is a craft suitable for all ages and guidance is provided.

Many people received Kindles, laptops, and digital devices of all sorts for the holidays and a percentage of that group is unsure and a little bit afraid to use their gifts.  The staff of the library is always happy to provide hands-on help and instruction.  Though it’s a sleepy season, it’s usually a good idea to call ahead to reserve some time for a lesson.

Of course, the library offers good reliable computer service either through its set of desktop computers or its 24-hour wireless signal (which extends out into the parking lot for those times when the library is closed).

All of these services are free and you don’t need to be a patron to use them.

For information or to schedule some time for help with digital devices, call Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library at (828) 743-0215.  The library is located at 249 Frank Allen Road.