Jared Sherlock: Comic Magician and Illusionist
Jared Sherlock was our choice to close our Summer Reading Program. He is an award winning illusionist and comic magician, who crafted his program to be appropriate for our Summer Reading theme, "Reading by Design." One of the concepts we worked with is that reading can introduce everyone new concepts, ideas, and worlds. We wanted kids to focus on the pleasure of reading and the power of learning. Throughout Jared's magical program, he spoke of how he learned to do magic, how you can get books from the library that will tell you how to get started with magic, and how he developed his interest in magic, story-telling and theater. Jared was really able to capture the kids imaginations, and this was one of the most well-received programs we had all year, by kids and adults alike.
552 participated
We hope that after watching this program, the children in attendance would be open to more fun ways to use their library. We also hoped that exposure to this art form would increase their interest in magic, story-telling and theater. We want to know why they enjoyed the program, what they got out of it and to collect public comments. We distribute evaluation forms after every program.
99% of respondents said that this program helped them to enjoy their library and all it has to offer. 56% said that they enjoyed this program because it helped them to learn a new skill, while 79% said that they were able to spend quality time with friends and family. 89% said that this program increased their interest in magic, story-telling, and/or theater. Public comments included: "Fun program. Good encouragement to read to learn a new skill," and, "My children enjoy these programs so much. It gives them new topics to explore," and, "These programs are fantastic. I can see my kids eyes light up with wonder and excitement!"
In Greenbush, the Friends of the Library helped to set up and clean up, and they also provided cookies, punch and coffee. In Karlstad, use of the community center was provided free of charge. In Hallock, use of City Hall was provided free of charge, and they had volunteers help with clean up.