Free meals – and fun – at Wasco Library

The Wasco Branch Library, in partnership with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, offers a program called "Supper & Snacks in the Stacks." This initiative provides free meals and snacks to children ages 2 to 18 on Mondays and Tuesdays, when the library is open.

Tina Garcia, an office services technician who has worked at the library for over 40 years, expressed her excitement about the program. "This is the third year we've been offering it, and it's been successful. It started off slow this year, but it will pick up. It's not just about the food; it's a great place for kids to come and hang out and do their homework with friends or on their own. If they need help, we can assist, and we have computers, copiers and reference materials for school projects."

The library offers much more than just meals. "We have books on just about every subject, and if we don't have something, we can order it from another branch at no cost," Garcia added. "It's a nice place to come after school. There's so much to offer here. So, it's more than just the meals."

Getting a library card is easy and free for first-time applicants. "If you're under 18, you just need a parent's ID and a signature on the application. If you're 18 or older, a California ID or driver's license will do. We also offer guest cards for those who need temporary access to computers."

Garcia emphasized the importance of the program for the community, particularly for low-income families. "This program helps address food insecurity in Wasco, especially for those children who may not always get dinner at home. It's a way to feed both their minds and their bodies, so they can play, do well in school and just stay nourished."

Parents have responded positively. "The feedback we get from parents is that they really appreciate what we're doing. They're often surprised but grateful that we're offering this program."

Supper is served from 3 to 5 p.m. and snacks from 5 to 6 p.m., making it a valuable resource for families.

In addition to the meals, the library provides entertainment during program hours. "We do games, movies, story times and crafts during Supper & Snacks in the Stacks," Garcia said. "Crafts, or as we call them, 'crafternoons,' are always a hit."

The meals vary each day. "Some examples include barbecue chicken with a vegetable and either rice or beans. We'll have pizza, corn dogs and hot dogs. Snacks range from fruits like bananas, apples and pears to crackers and chips with juice. We try to keep it balanced and healthy."

The library also offers programs for teens and adults. "Once a month, we have a teen and an adult program. It could be anything from stained glass to sewing to embroidery. We provide all materials, and these classes are held on Tuesdays, typically the second or fourth week of the month, from 4 to 6 p.m.," Garcia explained.

Garcia encouraged the community to take full advantage of the library's resources. "We want the people of Wasco to use their library as much as possible. It's a great resource and a place to come together, learn and have fun."