Dubois Branch Library serves community and school with more than just books

Post and photos by June Bonasera, County 10.com News

(Dubois) – Community programming, integration with the Dubois School system, family movie night and monthly book fairs are just a few of the services provided by the Dubois Branch Library, part of the Fremont County Library system.Built in 2002 primarily with private funding and a “bit of” public funding, the Dubois Branch Library offers free Wi fi connection (available 24/7), free use of laptops and computer stations, as well as books, books on tape and DVD’s. The library participates in Wyoming’s ‘Honor Books’ program which allows library members to pick up and return books at or from any library in the state at no cost.

Library director Paula Sabatka reported that on average, approximately 75 visitors per day use the facility in the winter, with an increase to 100 visitors per day in the summer. She also noted that the circulation per capita per visit is higher in Dubois than in Riverton or Lander. There are presently over 26,000 items available for check out.

With budget cuts in the Dubois school system necessitating the elimination of school librarian positions last year, the Dubois Branch Library has become a vital resource to Dubois students. Programs including library skills training are held at the library, with a recent visit by Dubois elementary school teacher Rosie Graff’s 7th grade class to research information for National History Day.

A weekly family story time program for children and parents up to four years old is well attended by children from Dubois and Crowheart. Typically the library has 10 participating families per story session. The program is lead by children’s librarian Carolyn Gillette.

Adult programming includes a book discussion group taking place every other Wednesday evening, beginning at 6 p.m. All wishing to attend can join the group at any point.

A meeting room is available during normal library hours for community groups to use at no charge, which has been well utilized by Dubois and Fremont County organizations including various homeowners associations, Central Wyoming College, Wind River Visitors Council, Fremont County Public Health Services, Fremont County Emergency Medical Service plus Hospice groups.

Library hours are:

Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

202 1st StreetFor more information, please call 307-455-2992

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