Moran Prairie Library celebrates 10th anniversary

The Moran Prairie Library has entered double digits.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, the library is throwing a party – with the help of some people from its past.

The festivities kick off at 2 p.m. with music from local band Buffalo Jones on the library’s back lawn. Lead singer and guitarist Jason Johnson was the library manager from 2010 to 2013.

Then at 3 p.m., author and former library employee Sharma Shields will emcee readings by local authors, including Ellen Welcker, Stephanie Oakes, Tim Greenup, Chris Cook, Aileen Keown Vaux and Kris Dinnison.

“They are all people who use the libraries consistently,” Shields said. “They’re not just supporters, they go” and use everything the library has to offer.

She’s definitely in that category. She said she checks out items for research on writing projects, and fun stuff, too, like books, CDs and DVDs for the kids.

“Sometimes I fill up my card, and I’ll use the kids’ cards, too,” she said.

Shields worked for the Spokane County Library District from 2008 to 2012, and said Moran Prairie was one of her favorite branches to work at.

“I loved working for the library and I loved seeing everything they do for the community, which is so much more than books,” Shields said. People go to the library to learn a new language, learn computer skills and to get help with job searches and legal issues, she said. Plus, she added, there’s fun programming like yoga, wine and chocolate classes, and storytimes.

Saturday’s open house, which is sponsored by the Friends of Moran Prairie Library, will also feature children’s crafts and cupcakes.

Moran Prairie Library supervisor Danielle Marcy said invitations have been sent to past employees and library board members so they can help celebrate.

“I’m just thrilled that we have such great partners coming to work with us on it,” she said. She said she hopes Saturday’s open house will “highlight what a gem we are for the community.”

Kimberly Lusk