This winter, we asked patrons of all ages to design a new book cover based on a book that reminds them to take care. Congratulations to our winners! These folks drew, painted, and colored designs to celebrate this year’s Winter Reading theme, “Take Time to Take Care.”

To improve their services, libraries, along with the rest of society, have embraced evolving technologies over the last century. If a time machine took us back to 1922, we could visit the Columbia Public Library, but we would miss the view from the Quiet Reading Room on the third floor and the convenience of the self-check stations in the current building. We would also miss our digital devices that connect us to the online library catalog, streaming Kanopy movies and all of the other things you love to do through the library’s website.

In the last few years, the Daniel Boone Regional Library has added new services that address community needs thanks to gifts made to the Daniel Boone Regional Library Foundation. Every penny donated is spent directly on services that benefit your friends, family and neighbors.

New trustee Margrace Buckler has called Columbia home for 48 years. She grew up in Nevada, Missouri, came to Columbia to attend college and later married Kevin, a Columbia native. She worked in state government for 12 years and recently retired from the City of Columbia after almost 23 years of service. For most of her career, she worked in human resources. Now she gardens, reads and walks miles with her dog Marley. She and her husband enjoy fly fishing and traveling to national parks.

Resolution Opposing 15 CSR 30-200.015 Library Certification Requirement for the Protection of Minors submitted by the Missouri Secretary of State

As the Columbia Public Library celebrates 100 years of service to our community, I am reminded of how libraries in general have changed over time. Early American public libraries had their origins in local communities and were often started by women’s clubs, such as the Tuesday Club in Columbia. Libraries were viewed as temples of learning — quiet, studious and primarily for adults. Over time, libraries became more open and inclusive.

Along with the Columbia Public Library’s centennial, the Daniel Boone Regional Library is celebrating the 40th year of the program “Party With the Stars” hosted by Val Germann of the Central Missouri Astronomical Association. Since its beginning in 1982, we estimate that “Party With the Stars” has attracted about 10,000 attendees to Val’s presentations.

We had 13 entries for this year’s online Cosplay Costume Contest and they were all fantastic and unique! After much deliberation, we have chosen this year’s winners. Thanks to our judges and all of our participants!