Library lures girls to books with looks

Officials at the Post Falls Public Library think they may have a way to turn teenage girls on to reading.

No, it’s not a famous woman author or renowned researcher coming to town. Think manicure, not literature.

Girls’ Night Out, an evening of free makeup, hairstyling, skin care, nutrition and exercise classes, is designed for girls age 13 through 17.

“Traditionally, that is kind of an age where attendance tends to fall off at the library,” said children’s librarian Lucy Barnard. “So we try to think of fun ways to bring them in.”

A professional cosmetologist and an aerobics instructor will give free consultations for girls tonight from 6:30 to 8.

Many teens don’t know about the resources available at the library, Barnard said. Library employees are using this as an opportunity to showcase what they have that girls might like. Beauty and health care books will be on display during the activities.

About 20 girls have registered for the classes so far, Barnard said.

The library is also planning a computer game night just for the guys.

“I know some other libraries have done that in other parts of the country, and they’ve had a line of people waiting down the sidewalk,” Barnard said.

Library employees hope to offer father-son and mother-daughter activities in the future.

For more information, call (208) 773-1506.