To the Library and Beyond Prairie Community Library, Inc. – Your nonprofit, all volunteer source. Take some time to visit your Library; browse the many recent additions to our collection. We hope you have time to read, because some titles are irresistible! Joan has reviewed the 2024 book, The Anxious Generation, by Jonathan Haidt. “Overall, this is an enlightening and concerning book.” Mr. Haidt’s book relates to Generation Z (young people born after 1995), and how they live in today’s society with ever-present computers and cell phones. The author described how youth of previous generations (before the advent of screens) grew up without so many restrictions on their free time. He stated that the Z Generation spends most of their spare time with computers and cell phones resulting in little time for play and social interactions with other children and adults. Consequently, too many children are unable to develop a healthy mentality, unimpeded by anxiety, depression, and screen addiction. The author detailed the needs of the maturing brain that are not being met. He suggested several actions that can be taken by governments, tech companies, schools, and parents to help kids live a healthier childhood and wholesome teen years. Pat G. gives us three “Thumbs Up” selections: Curiosity Didn’t Kill the Cat, a page turner by M. K. Wren; Winds In The Woods, The Story Of John Muir by John Stewart, an enjoyable read (including photos) that personalized the multi-faceted Mr. Muir in less than 90 pages; and a book of short stories by Baxter Black with entertaining comments by the author about the stories. We would like interested persons to seriously consider joining our small group of volunteers, and perhaps even a position on the Board of Directors (especially if you have a financial background!). We will be losing one volunteer next year, so please think about joining us for our Annual Meeting in February. “Volunteering can help identify your talents and potential.” On Monday 10 November we recall the birth of the Continental Marine Corps in 1775; on 11 November we celebrate Veterans’ Day and/or WWI Armistice Day; on 12 November, we may glimpse the moon’s third quarter for this month. Last month Prairie Community Library exceeded a few average statistics: We loaned 331 items (per month average 270), 264 of which were children’s items (average 183); librarians added 206 items to our shelves, 5.5 times the average of 37! The volunteers who manage and operate Prairie Community Library are committed to a continuing conversation regarding the organization’s direction and priorities. Send your volunteer message to cottonwoodlib@gmail.com. “Volunteering improves our self-esteem.” Please recommend improvements to the Library’s direction, priorities and customer service. Thank you all! | COTTONWOOD
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