From Storytimes to books for bedtime stories to use in learning to read, parents with young children never seem to be at a loss for all that their library system has to offer. But after the children are grown, what does one use the library for, other than to check out books? This is a common query that we receive at the Toledo Lucas County Public Library with many of our adult and young adult customers.

Enter the Haynes family. They began using the library when daughter Alysa and son Orlando were children, and have kept using it ever since. “Alysa and Orlando were always in the Summer Reading Club, and now that they’re both grown, we all participate in the adult program together as a family,” shares Lisa-Maria.

The Haynes have taken advantage of the many family programs offered such as holiday candy making and karaoke programs. “We really enjoy them! Our extended family even came to karaoke – It really helped get all of us into the holiday spirit!”

During the college application process, Orlando turned to his library for help in researching and applying for tuition scholarships as well as for printing essays. Today, he is a mechanical engineering student at the University of Toledo and a member of the Rocket Marching Band. Alysa is also attending college, as a nursing student.

Lisa-Maria has also found enrichment at the library. “I work as a wedding planner and am starting a blog on family recipes that are both healthy and cost effective. The library’s programs on couponing, financial literacy and one-on-one computer trainings have helped me a great deal!”

Seeing the Haynes family grow up in our library system is our ultimate goal. We want our customers to begin using the library as young children and continue to use it into adulthood.

Thank you Haynes Family for staying with us all of these years and for sharing your library story!

Channel your inner-Haynes family by taking advantage of our many adult resources and programs such as:

• Spending Smarter (financial literacy) • Tech Help (computer and device training and help) • eMedia (free streaming movies, music and eBooks and audiobooks) • Book Groups and Library Clubs • Job Search Assistance • Continuing Education

Check out our programs page for additional offerings.