A.K. Smiley Library Prepares for a Day of Americana Fun

A grant from local computer mapping firm Esri will allow the Smiley Public Library in Redlands to host its fourth annual Library Days on Saturday, June 20. “This year’s event explores the themes of classic Americana," noted library director Don McCue. “We encourage both our longtime patrons and new residents to come to Smiley Library, learn something new, have some food, and enjoy a variety of fine entertainment." "Music will be a key part of our eclectic celebration," observed McCue. Popular local favorite the West Palm Avenue Band will perform a free concert of classic American rock tunes in the park next to the Lincoln Memorial Shrine between noon and 2 p.m. The Shrine itself will be open for extended hours beginning at 10 a.m. and will feature a special one-day only exhibit of Lincoln-themed Americana oddities, such as bobble heads and psychedelic posters. A host of activities are taking place at the Library and in Smiley Park from between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Fourth Street will be closed for an exhibition of classic American cars. Library patrons will have the ability to participate in a variety of fun activities and games such as face painting, a cupcake walk, beanbag toss, sack races and hula hoops in Smiley Park. From 10 a.m. through noon there will be screenings of the classic American cartoons the Jetsons and the Flintstones on a massive screen in the Library’s assembly room. Complimentary popcorn will be available. At 10:15 a.m. in the Heritage Room, authors Claudia and Alan Heller will discuss their recent book about the quintessential American highway Route 66. The first 400 guests who participate in any Library Day event or show their library card at the circulation desk that morning will get a special treat: a coupon good for a free In-N-Out lunch from the In-N-Out truck, which will be on site. There will also be complimentary snow cones available. “It’s the Library’s way of saying thank you to everyone who supports our mission of providing information and programming to the community,” concluded McCue. The Smiley library, a National Historic Register Landmark, is located at 125 W. Vine St. in Redlands. For further information, check out the library's webpage www.akspl.org or contact the library at 909-798-7565.