The Adair County Public Library and Hosparus Health Green River highlighted community services, educational programs and opportunities to help local residents during Tuesday’s Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce meeting.
Library Director LeeAnn Jessee discussed the library’s programs and services, along with how tax dollars are used to serve the community. Jessee has served at the library for 40 years.
“I do love my job. It’s the best job in the world,” she said.
The library offers programs throughout the year to encourage reading and learning among children and adults.
During the spring, fall and winter, the library hosts story alleys, with storyboards placed along the walls for visitors to follow as they read familiar stories.
The library’s six-week summer reading program drew more than 400 children this year.
Another program, Storytime to Schooltime, is held at 10 a.m. Tuesdays for children preparing to enter school. Participants learn foundational skills, including how to hold a pencil, sing songs and recognize rhymes.
Other offerings include homeschool story hour, teen story hour, book club, book premiere parties and craft activities.
The library also provides public computers, fax and copying services, and study rooms.
Jessee emphasized the importance of making library services accessible and ensuring public funding benefits the community.
“I want to make sure that your dollars are used the best way possible. The best way that we can use your tax dollars is to provide services for you guys that you might not even know you need,” she said.
Hosparus explains care options
Representatives from Hosparus Health Green River outlined the organization’s hospice and palliative care services and encouraged residents to learn about available options before a medical crisis.
Jennifer Van Mersbergen, community outreach manager, explained that palliative care helps patients manage pain and other symptoms while continuing treatment for an illness. Hospice care focuses on comfort for patients who meet eligibility requirements and are no longer pursuing curative treatment.
Services may include nursing care, assistance with daily needs, social workers, chaplains and grief counseling. Medicare also provides a hospice benefit for eligible patients.
Hosparus Health currently serves about 13 hospice patients in Adair County, with an average hospice stay of 18 days.
Corey Wilson discussed volunteer opportunities, including visiting patients, providing companionship, assisting caregivers and making blankets or other items for patients.
The organization is particularly seeking local veterans to volunteer with its program supporting veterans receiving care.
Residents can contact Hosparus Health to learn more about services or make a referral. Families are encouraged to seek information early so they understand their options when care is needed.
Chamber announces upcoming events
Chamber Chairperson Ellen Zornes reminded attendees of several upcoming community events.
The annual Treats on the Town event will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30, at the old middle school gym on General John Adair Drive. Candy vendors are still needed.
The annual Christmas Parade is scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. All veterans are invited to serve as grand marshals, and transportation will be provided during the parade.
The Christmas Home Tour will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6. Tickets are $10 each. This year’s featured homes and locations belong to Kyle and Morgan Sandusky, Sandy Conover, J.D. and Ellen Zornes, and Southern Nest Realty.
By Amy Pike
amy@adairvoice.com
