Tired of just flipping pages? With an overwhelming abundance of books available, finding the perfect read can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Despite the vast array of options, narrowing down choices to match individual tastes and preferences can be a daunting task. From navigating genres to deciphering reviews, the journey to discovering the next captivating story can sometimes be more challenging than anticipated.

At the Fairhope Public Library, finding the perfect book just got easier with the introduction of their new service, "Shelf Help." This initiative aims to assist community members in selecting their next read with personalized recommendations tailored to their preferences.

The backbone of this service lies in the dedicated library staff, whose expertise serves as the institution's most valuable resource. By filling out a brief questionnaire to express their reading tastes, patrons enable the staff to curate a list of five titles suited to their interests.

While the staff at the Fairhope Public Library strive to accommodate all requests, it's important to note that the immediate availability of suggested titles is not guaranteed, as some books may be checked out or on a waitlist.

Patrons can anticipate receiving their personalized reading list via email, with the staff working diligently to provide recommendations as promptly as possible.

To access the "Shelf Help" service and kickstart the journey to discovering new literary gems, individuals are encouraged to complete the questionnaire on the Fairhope Public Library’s website at fairhopelibrary.org.

IT’S YOUR LUCKY DAY

Foley isn’t the only library introducing a new program. The Foley Public Library announced the launch of its newest offering, the "Lucky Day" Collection, providing patrons with a unique opportunity to snag high-demand items without waiting in the hold queue.

Designed to cater to the avid readers' immediate needs, the Lucky Day Collection features additional copies of bestsellers and frequently updated new titles. These items are prominently displayed among the new book section within the library.

Unlike regular library holdings, items from the Lucky Day Collection cannot be reserved or placed on hold. Instead, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering patrons the chance to serendipitously discover their next read.

If you spot an item on the Lucky Day shelf, it's your ‘lucky day’. You can check it out instantly, even if there are multiple holds on the same title in the library's regular collection. Furthermore, items from the Lucky Day Collection have a checkout period of seven days and are not eligible for renewal. Each patron is entitled to borrow one item at a time from this special collection.

Visit the Foley Public Library at 319 E. Laurel Ave. in Foley to explore your lucky find among the shelves of the Lucky Day Collection.

UPCOMING LIBRARY EVENTS

Spring Into a Good Book Sale

The Bay Minette Public Library will be hosting its "Spring Into a Good Book Sale" on Saturday, March 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The sale will be held on the library's front lawn, with additional titles available in the upstairs book sale room. Patrons can purchase specially designed library totes and coffee cups, with limited quantities available on a first-come, first-served basis. All other items will be priced at $1 each, and all proceeds will support library projects. The library is located at 205 W. Second Street

19th Annual Poetry Contest

In celebration of National Poetry Month, the Friends of the Gulf Shores Library and the Orange Beach Library are sponsoring a poetry contest for students in grades K-12. Now in its 19th year, the contest encourages creative expression and offers monetary prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. Submissions must be received by Saturday, April 6, and entry forms are available at local schools and libraries or online at gulfshoresal.gov/1801/Teen-Programs. For more information, interested individuals can contact the library at (251) 968-1176.

Solar Eclipse Book Sale Event

Additionally, on Monday, April 8, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Spanish Fort Public Library invites the community to join them for their Solar Eclipse Book Sale Event. Attendees will have the opportunity to browse and purchase a variety of books, CDs and DVDs at discounted prices. Throughout the day, special deals will be offered, with all proceeds benefiting the Spanish Fort Public Library. The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Spanish Fort Public Library and promises fun for the entire community. The library is located at 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd., Spanish Fort.