Here at Hill Air Force Base, the library isn't just for reading. It's also a place to gather with others who are waiting for the day when their spouse or parent returns home from deployment.
On Feb. 24, the library sponsored its first get-together for the families of deployed troops. The event, "Love Always," featured activities and refreshments for both kids and adults.
"I thought it was a good turnout," said Tammy Lermond, library aide, of the 45 adults and kids who showed up at 5:30 that evening for some fun.
The children were treated to a reading from "The Wishing Tree" by Mary Redman. They were then able to write their own wish or deployed parent's name on a piece of yellow ribbon and hang it on the Wishing Tree that stands in the library's lobby.
"We still have people putting ribbons (on the tree)," Lermond said.
Along with reading and making wishes, the families were given a chance to create their own charm bracelets. The bracelets featured red, white and blue beads and the deployed spouse's or parent's name.
The families weren't the only ones having fun, either. The entire library staff participated by assisting the children with their bracelets and reading to the families.
"We were all excited for it because it was the first time we'd had one," said Alicia Reinier, a senior library technician, about the event.
It was a great way to let the spouses meet each other and for the kids to get to have some fun, Lermond said. "We hope that this event lets people know that the library is there for their needs," she added.
The next get-together is scheduled for fall 2010. For more information on this and other library programs, please contact the library at (801) 777-3833 or (801) 777-2533.
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