National Library Week - "Find Your Joy"
- Library Staff
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Get ready to "Find Your Joy" at the library!
This National Library Week, we’re celebrating the endless ways our space brings happiness to the community. Whether you’re looking for the thrill of a new favorite author, the inspiration of a live presentation, the hands-on fun of learning a new craft, or simply the peaceful solace of a quiet reading nook—there is a spark of joy waiting here for everyone.
Discover how we’ve grown into more than just a home for books; we are your gateway to new hobbies, powerful digital resources, and meaningful lifelong connections. Join us for this special week of celebration as we present the following events:
Sunday, April 19 at 1:30 PM – Navigating the New Era of AI
Demystify AI Tools and ChatGPT with Dr. Lynne Herr. AI seems to be everywhere, but what does it all mean? This friendly, non-technical discussion is designed for anyone who wants a straightforward answer. Dr. Herr will explain AI in simple terms, examine its current uses, and discuss both the helpful advancements and the potential drawbacks. We will also cover essentials to help you interact safely and effectively with AI systems you encounter every day. The main goal is to help you understand AI better so you can make informed decisions if, when and how to use it.
The session will conclude with an optional and simple "Try-It" activity for those interested: bring your smartphone, and we will guide you through asking a basic question to an easy-to-use AI tool so you can experience AI generation firsthand. Absolutely no pressure to participate, you are welcome to just watch and learn.
Dr. Lynne Herr has served as a technology-focused professional learning consultant at Educational Service Unit 6 in Milford, NE since 2007. Dr. Herr, a recognized global Google Innovator, is passionate about facilitating learning and change through technology tools. She regularly leads community education sessions on AI tools and consults with schools across the country to lead both online and in-person professional learning around AI tools & policies.
Monday, April 20 at 6:30 PM – Puzzle Tournament
Whether you’re a strategic sorter who tackles the edges first or a fast-fingered builder with an eye for detail, nothing beats the collective rush of adrenaline as teams race to click that final, glorious piece into place. Don’t miss out on the action - join us for a high-energy puzzle tournament where speed, strategy, and teamwork take center stage! Top three teams from this tournament will qualify for the state fair!
Tuesday, April 21 at 6:30 PM – Adult Craft Night
Brighten up your home and your mood! Join us for "Painted Pots," a creative session where you’ll transform a simple terracotta pot into a colorful masterpiece for your porch or garden. It’s the perfect chance to grab a friend, relax, and master a new craft in a warm, welcoming space.
Thursday, April 23 at 6:30 PM – Book Review Bingo
Are you looking for your next great read? Join us as we combine the thrill of the game with a curated guide to the best literature of the year! As we play, library staff will share reviews from the 2025 Notable Books list and 2025 The Reading List, giving you an insider’s look at the must-read titles hitting our shelves. It is a wonderful way to discover new genres and authors while competing for exciting prizes!
Friday, April 24 at 6:30 PM – A Novel Night of Trivia
Think You Know Your Books? Prove It! Dust off those bookmarks and gather your sharpest friends! This “fun-raising” night is sponsored by Friends of Seward Library and VFW Post 4755 – Seward. It’s time to see who remembers the plot twists and who just liked the cover art.
We’ve got questions, moderated by Mayor Josh Eickmeier, that will challenge your inner bibliophile. Teams may consist of up to 8 per table, cost is $25 per table. Cash prizes for the top three teams with first place taking $200! Cash bar available – no alcohol may be brought into the building.
Doors open at 6:30 PM and questions begin at 7:00 PM and we are aiming to be done at 10:00 PM. Register now online to join us at the Seward VFW.
Saturday, April 25 at 10:00 AM – York’s Children’s Theater
This year’s presentation will be “The Fisherman and His Wife.” Enjoy a classic German fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm that serves as a powerful cautionary tale about greed and contentment.
Library Bookmark Contest
Children are invited to enter our upcoming bookmark design competition! To participate, students should create an original bookmark and submit it to the library by April 8. Winners will be selected and have their photograph together featured in the Seward County Independent during National Library Week.