MTL NEWSLETTER
JUNE 2026
https://waterloolibrary.org/
NEWS FROM THE DIRECTOR
I can’t believe that summer is almost upon us! I am so thrilled about our upcoming medieval-themed Summer Reading Program, Knights of the Reading Realm. Our team has been hard at work planning amazing activities, challenges, crafts, and programs for all ages, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone to the library for a summer filled with imagination, adventure, and fun.
 
The library is also here to help make your summer easier, more affordable, educational, and entertaining in so many different ways. Don’t forget to explore all of the resources available with your library card, including free family vacation kits, adventure kits, binoculars for bird watching, telescopes for star gazing, Kindles for e-reading, Launchpads for learning and activities on the go, Playaways for audiobooks without Wi-Fi, mobile hotspots to keep you connected, and oversized yard games perfect for family gatherings and summer parties.
 
And remember: the library can travel with you wherever summer takes you! Access e-books, audiobooks, magazines, movies, and more anytime using Libby, CloudLibrary, Kanopy, and our other digital resources. Looking to combat the “summer slide”? The library also offers literacy kits, language learning resources, educational activities, and programs designed to keep minds active and engaged all summer long.
 
Whether you are staying close to home or heading out on an adventure, Morrison-Talbott Library is here to help you make the most of your summer. We hope to see you often this season!
 
Jamie
Director

SUMMER READING PROGRAM
Please click here to view our Summer Reading Program 2026 Brochure
SUMMER CALENDARS
 
ADULT PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Hear ye, hear ye! The Summer Reading Program draweth nigh! From June 1 through August 1, 2026, join us for Knights of the Reading Realm: Embark on a Quest, One Book at a Time!
 
Readers of all ages are invited to take part in challenges, engaging programs, and plenty of merriment throughout the summer.
 
Begin your journey with Footloose in Wales with John Lynn on Friday, June 5th at 6 p.m, where John shares highlights and photos from his incredible 250-mile trek through Wales, including castles and scenic landscapes.
 
Then, venture to a galaxy far, far away at our private showing of The Mandalorian and Grogu at RMC Waterloo on Monday, June 8th at 6:45 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the library and are $7, which includes a youth popcorn
and drink, and a chance to win a Funko flocked Grogu.
 
The excitement continues with a variety of programs for all ages. On Saturday, June 20th at 6 p.m. Step into a medieval adventure at the library’s Birds of Prey program, featuring hawks,
owls, and a falcon on display with Party Paw Mobile Zoo! Learn how these powerful birds were used in falconry during the Middle Ages and how they continue to play important roles today.
 
On Thursday, June 25th at 6:30 p.m., Mark Glenshaw, award-winning naturalist, presents Forest Park Owls: Hiding in Plain Sight, offering updated insight into the lives of these fascinating birds.
 
Finally, step back in time on Monday, June 29th at 6:30 p.m. with a fun and educational living history program featuring Barbara Kay and King Henry VIII.
 
Gather your courage and join us for a summer filled with reading, discovery, and adventure at Morrison-Talbott Library!
 
Sherri
Adult Services Coordinator 
UPCOMING ADULT PROGRAMS
 

HOMEBOUND DELIVERY
At Morrison-Talbott Library, we believe everyone deserves
access to great books, movies, and more—no matter their situation. If you or someone you know can’t make it to the library due to illness, a medical condition, or mobility challenges, our Homebound Delivery Service is here to help.
 
Visit our website to learn more about this program and how to apply: https://waterloolibrary.org/homebound-delivery/
 
BOOK CLUB PICKS
 
 Moxie & Mocktails Book Club
 
Meeting June 25 @ 7:00 PM
The Love Haters by Katherine Center
The Love Haters
by Katherine Center

 It's a thin line between love and love-hating in the newest laugh out loud, all the feels rom-com by New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center. Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past--now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole's request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom Hutch Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West. The catch? Katie's not exactly qualified. She can't swim--but pretends that she can. Plus, Cole and Hutch are brothers. And they don't get along. Next stop: paradise! But paradise is messier than it seems. As Katie gets entangled with Hutch (the most scientifically good-looking man she has ever seen . . . but maybe a bit of a love hater), along with his colorful aunt Rue and his rescue Great Dane, she gets trapped in a lie. Or two. Swim lessons, helicopter flights, conga lines, drinking contests, hurricanes, and stolen kisses ensue--along with chances to tell the truth, to face old fears, and to be truly brave at last.
 Page Turners Book Club
 
Meeting June 17 @ 3:30 PM
The Widow by John Grisham
The Widow
by John Grisham

Simon Latch is a lawyer in rural Virginia, making just enough to pay his bills while his marriage slowly falls apart. Then into his office walks Eleanor Barnett, an elderly widow in need of a new will. Apparently, her husband left her a small fortune, and no one knows about it. Once he hooks the richest client of his career, Simon works quietly to keep her wealth under the radar. But soon her story begins to crack. When she is hospitalized after a car accident, Simon realizes that nothing is as it seems, and he finds himself on trial for a crime he swears he didn't commit: murder. Simon knows he's innocent. But he also knows the circumstantial evidence is against him, and he could spend the rest of his life behind bars. To save himself, he must find the real killer--Provided by publisher.
Book Recommendations - What Will You Read Next?
Check out our library Goodreads page!   Courtesy of Friends of the Morrison-Talbott Library

 YOUTH PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Step into the Knights of the Reading Realm this summer at the library, filled with reading, programs, and fun for all ages! There is something for everyone in the kingdom of reading! Readers of all ages are invited to join the Summer Reading Challenge by reading (or being read to) at least three books for a chance to win exciting prizes, including gift cards to local businesses, STL Cardinals tickets, and more. Pick up a reading bookmark at the library to track your books.
 
Young knights and adventurers can also complete the Summer Reading Challenge Game Board by finishing any 8 activities on their age-specific board. Participants will earn a movie pass to RMC Cinema, sponsored by First Community Credit Union, along with two tickets to a Gateway Grizzlies reading program night. Completed game boards turned in by July 13 will be entered to win Monroe County Fair ride tickets, and all completed boards will also be entered into a drawing for a reading-themed t-shirt from AIM Designs. 
Along with our reading challenges, we have an exciting lineup of programs and adventures planned for all ages, here are just a few of them:
 
  • Storytime (all ages) on Tuesdays, June 9 & 23 and July 14 & 28 at 10am for stories, songs, crafts, and fun activities. 
  • Little Movers (ages 0-2) on Wednesdays, June 3 & 17 and July 1 & 15 at 10am. A fun way for caregivers and little ones to interact through music, movement, and a story. 
  • Family Storytime (all ages) on Thursdays, June 11 & July 9 at 6:30pm. An evening storytime for the whole family!
  • STEAM Stories (ages 5-11) on Thursdays, June 4 & July 2 at 6:30pm. We read a story and then complete a STEAM activity.
  • Teens (grades 6-12) can also sign up for a special Camp Wartburg Field Trip on Friday, July 10 from 8:30–11:30 a.m. Participants will enjoy axe throwing and archery, with transportation provided. Space is limited, and parent/guardian waivers and permission slips must be completed by July 1.
  • Book Wizards Book Club (grades 3-5) on Tuesdays, June 9 & July 14 at 6:30pm Monthly book theme with discussion, games, and activities. Themes: June-dragons, July-historical fiction
  • Bookmarked Book Club (Grades 6-8) on Tuesdays, June 2 & July 7 at 6:30pm Monthly book theme with discussion, games, and activities. Themes: June-free choice, July-dragons
Be sure to check out the summer reading brochure for full program details, registration information, and more. We can’t wait to spend the summer reading, learning, and adventuring with you in the Reading Realm!
 
Sincerely,
Ms. Stephanie 
Youth Services Coordinator
SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS
View a complete list of our summer programs here
 
CATALOGER'S CORNER
 
Same Title, Different Book? Choosing the Right Listing.

When you search for a title, our catalog may show multiple versions—different publication years, formats (print, large print, audio, etc.), or editions. If you see several similar results on Aspen or the SHARE Mobile app, use the listings to narrow down the one that matches what you’re looking for.

For example, searching for “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s
Stone” in the SHARE Mobile app can bring up many results—some may be binge boxes, an audio recording, or bundles that include multiple films. If you’re just wanting the first book—or even the first movie—you may need to scroll for a bit before you find the exact listing, which can be frustrating.

Tip: click the item to view details like the publication date, number of pages or discs, and (for films) runtime. It’s also helpful to check how many copies are on that record. Even if an item exists in our catalog, a request may be affected by our local policy: new items stay in-house for 60 days before other library patrons can check them out. Listings with more copies may give you more opportunities to find one that’s able to be requested sooner, depending on timing.
 
LIBRARY HIGHLIGHTS
Genealogy 
Library of Things
 
Illinois Libraries Present
 
 
 
LIBRARY NEWS
Honoring 18 years of service
 
Ken Perkins recently retired from the Morrison Talbott Library Board of Trustees after 18 years of dedicated service to the library and the Waterloo community. Serving from 2008–2026, Ken provided thoughtful leadership, steady guidance, and strong advocacy during a period of continued growth and change for the library. Last week, Mayor Stan Darter presented Ken with a commendation in recognition of his years of commitment and service. We are grateful for Ken’s leadership, mentorship, and lasting contributions to the library’s mission and future.
 
 
Join Our Team at Morrison Talbott Library!
 
As our library continues to grow, we are looking to add a part-time member to our circulation team! Working at the library is rewarding, fast-paced, and filled with opportunities to make a difference in the community each day. From assisting patrons and helping people discover resources to helping prepare for educational programs and handling a variety of other tasks, no two days are exactly alike.
We are seeking someone with strong customer service skills who enjoys working with people, thrives in a busy environment, and appreciates variety in their workday. Because today’s libraries offer so many digital services and resources, applicants should feel comfortable using technology and helping patrons navigate it as well. If you are looking for meaningful part-time employment close to home while serving your community, we would love to hear from you!
 
Applications and additional information are available at https://waterloolibrary.org/employment-opportunities/
 
 
E-RESOURCES
 
Here are just a few of the great resources you can access for FREE with your library card! Check out a complete list HERE:
 
 https://waterloolibrary.org/electronic-resources/
 
 
 
Want to know more about what's going on at the library? Follow us on social media! 
For more details or questions, please contact the library. 
Morrison-Talbott Library
215 Park Street
Waterloo, Illinois 62298
618-939-6232

https://waterloolibrary.org