February will bring a variety of programming to the library. Join us for storytime each Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m. with stories about numbers, letters, colors and shapes and we’ll end the month with stories about libraries.

Each week we have about 25 minutes of stories, rhymes and song followed by about 25 minutes of play time with a variety of early childhood toys that encourage science and math early learning. Anyone is welcome to come with stories targeted to children ages 3 to 4.

Great Decisions the foreign policy discussion group will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., to discuss energy independence. This open forum welcomes anyone in junior high and above to join in the discussion and learn about crucial foreign policy topics.

The monthly Friends of the Library book sale will be Thursday, Feb. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. This monthly sale of books, videos and more will be in the basement book room. All sales are by donation with proceeds benefiting the Friends support of library programming.

Friday, Feb. 13, at 7 p.m. is open mic night. Join us for a wonderful evening of song, poetry, speeches, skits and who knows what else. Bring your voice and share with the community your talent or just sit back and listen to the amazing talent in this community. Contact Diane at the library if you have questions.

Saturday, Feb. 21, at 10:30 a.m., is the annual edible car contest. Come create and race a car you build entirely out of edible items. We will provide a variety of edible materials including cheerios, spaghetti and other pasta, and cookies. But you are welcome to bring anything you think you want for your vehicle as we can’t guarantee that we’ll think of the same things.

Monday, Feb. 23, at 6:30 p.m., is documentary movie night with a showing of “Girl Rising.” Girl Rising journeys around the globe to witness the strength of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world. Viewers get to know nine unforgettable girls living in the developing world: ordinary girls who confront tremendous challenges and overcome nearly impossible odds to pursue their dreams. Refreshments provided during discussion following the film.

Also on Monday, Feb. 23, is a Border Concert featuring Todd Oliver and Friends. This 7 p.m. concert at the Backus Community Center Auditorium features canine ‘talking’ companions Irving and Lucy. The library has a limited number of free tickets available to this concert. Please stop by the library, fill out a survey and receive a free ticket to attend a ‘doggone, rockin’ fun music and good clean comedy concert.

Tuesday continues to be craft day in the junior room. A craft project with supplies and directions is made available all day. Come create and find a book or two for the week. Join us Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 4 p.m. for a basic drawing class for ages 6 and up. Learn a trick or two and practice your drawing.

Pet of the Week

Meet “Bob.” Simple name for a simple-needs, 1-year-old dog. His needs are friendly walks, playful adventures, family time and a whole lot of love. Bob is playful, enjoys the simple things in life and is one heck of a good friend. Loves kids, other animals and would make any home complete. Love him today and discover a whole new world with Bob. Neutered and up-to-date on shots.

For more information, visit the website at www.borderlandhumanesociety.org or call the Holding Facility, 218-283-9276.

In memory of David Zaren

Jan. 28, 1946-Nov. 24, 2014

My First Birthday in Heaven

I saw you all there gathered, gathered there below;

With tear-filled eyes like Heavens stars, reflecting on the snow.

I hate to see you saddened, please wipe away that tear;

For I am spending my birthday with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the sounds of laughter and memories so dear,

I wish I could celebrate with you;

Instead, I’ll have my birthday party here.

I have no words to tell you, the joy that heaven brings;

For it is beyond description, I hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart;

But I am not so far away, we really aren’t apart.

So be happy for me, loved ones, you know I hold you dear;

And be glad I’m spending my birthday with Jesus Christ this year.

I sent you each a special gift, from my heavenly home above;

I sent you each a memory, of my undying love.

After all, love is a gift more precious than pure gold,

It was always most important in the stories Jesus told.

For I can’t count the blessings or love he had for each of you.

So celebrate this evening and wipe away that tear,

Remember, I am spending my birthday with Jesus Christ this year.

Love and miss you so very much -

Wife Karen, daughter Missy and Moose, son Davy and family, Dee and Beth, grandchildren and great-grandchildren