At the Elsie Quirk Library this week, we’re talking a lot about handwashing. There have been a surprising number of studies on handwashing, conducted worldwide in all kinds of circumstances. Sounds pretty boring, until it’s suddenly very interesting. And you don’t even have to go out in public to explore the myriad information on handwashing, and other matters you may be interested in, because with your library card you can access an abundance of magazine articles, academic journals, ebooks, and even dissertations!
Through the library’s digital resources, you can read about a study done by a Navy physician in which frequent handwashing cut respiratory illness by 45%. The interesting thing about that study, to me, was the method for getting the Navy trainees in the study to wash their hands more frequently and thoroughly—bathroom inspections were relaxed. Meaning that trainees were skipping hand washing out of fear of their sinks not being spit-spot for inspection. So, in the effort to instill strict discipline in cleaning, the Navy was inadvertently creating poor handwashing habits. And that’s just one short article! You can also read about International Hand Washing Day in Afghanistan, sink technology aimed at training people to wash their hands for a sufficient length of time, or a whole book on how handwashing can save the world.
If you’ve got a handle on the hand washing and are just looking to stay in and enjoy a little entertainment, you can stream a classic movie or listen to some Lizzo using Hoopla, courtesy of the Sarasota County Library System. You can borrow an e-audio book through cloudLibrary or peruse magazines on Flipster. We are here to serve, in person or from afar, so stop in and ask us about all of these amazing digital resources, or give us a call, and we’ll get you reading, streaming, or researching to your heart’s delight!
This week’s events:
Friday
- Basic Conversational Spanish Class 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
This is a beginner’s class, for developing basic communication skills. - Asian Philosophies: India 10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
- Spanish Reading Group 3 – 4:30 p.m.
Reading is at the beginning-intermediate level.
Saturday
Suncoast Writers Guild Long Writers 10:15 – Noon
Spanish Storytime 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Monday
- Great Decisions Discussion Group 10:15 a.m.-Noon
The Great Decisions program highlights eight of the most thought-provoking foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. - Englewood Camera Club General Meeting 12:30 – 3:45 p.m.
- Read With The Dogs 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Children age 5 – 11 are invited to read with certified pet therapy dogs. - Monday Night Movies 5 p.m.
This week’s movie is an exploration of the exceptional life and mind of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. - English for Spanish Speakers – Gratis Clase de Ingles para Hispanohablantes 5:30 – 7 p.m.
For Spanish speakers, who want to improve their skills in speaking and understanding English, with emphasis on correct pronunciation. Students must be able to speak some basic English.
Tuesday
- Master Gardener Plant Clinic 10 a.m. – Noon. Get free answers to your Florida gardening and landscaping questions. This is made possible through a partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.
- Decline of the Middle Class. 10:15 a.m. – Noon
A class involving the changing of America’s economic future and the impact of these changes on the Middle Class. - Englewood Area Computer User’s Group 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.
- Englewood Genealogy Society – Britain/Europe 1:15 – 2:15 p.m.
- iPads For beginners: part 1 2 – 3:30 p.m. Learn hands-on iPad basics, internet browsing, downloading apps, how to take a photo and more! iPads are available for participants to use. If you bring your own iPad you will need an Apple ID. Registration is required and limited to 10 participants.
Wednesday
- French Conversation Group 10 a.m. – Noon
All are welcome. Bienvenue à tous. - Teen Advisory Board 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
The board is open to students age 11-18, to help plan library programs and initiatives, and provide input on library services. Refreshments provided.
Thursday
- Englewood Modern Quilters 10:15 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Reading Discussion Group 10:15 – noon.
The Reading Discussion Group meets the 3rd Thursday of each month October through April. Selected titles are available for checkout from the Sarasota County Library System. Title for March: “Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman. - Family Story Time 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. For ages 0-5.
Interact and participate with your child in a variety of early literacy activities that include music, stories, movement, crafts and school readiness activities. - Quirky Knitters 1p.m. – 3 p.m. All are welcome to knit and chat.
- Tech Time: One-on-One Help 10 a.m.–Noon
A tech volunteer will be available to help with e-books, computer basics, or questions about your electronic devices. Reserve a 30-minute session by calling 941-861-1207 or by signing up at the Reference Desk.
