Friends Of The Library: Children will love these library events

For mystery fans who like to read books set in California, the book to be discussed at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Donald Dungan Library in Costa Mesa is "Dead Game" by Kirk Russell. Books are available at the checkout desk for the month prior to the meeting. For more details, ask the Information Desk or call (949) 646-8845 and ask for Samantha. The library is at 1855 Park Ave.

There are at least two upcoming events at the Mesa Verde Library that those of you with children will want to know about. The first event is from 3:30 to 4:40 p.m. Thursday.

At that time, the Sunshine Storyteller, Ina Buckner-Barnette, will tell some amazing tales that will "ignite your imagination, tickle your funny bone and help you shine like the sun."

Children will travel the globe with participatory stories and song without leaving their seats. Families may sign up for this interactive program at the children's desk.

The second event, Read OC — Family Reading Time, takes place on the second Thursday of each month, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. This is for families with at least one child younger than 5, and is for parents as well as their children. There will be stories, crafts and a free book for each family. The Mesa Verde Library is at 2926 Mesa Verde Drive East, Costa Mesa.

For those of you whose children may need a particular classic book for a reading assignment, the Friends' bookstore behind the Mesa Verde Library has a whole bookcase full of them, and there is a very good chance you will find what you need. The price will probably range between 50 cents and $1. The store is open every day except Monday, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

A Dr. Seuss Storytime took place last month at the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library. A costumed Tina Cahill read "The Cat in the Hat" to the delight of the 40 children and parents in attendance. The children then decorated cookies with frosting and sprinkles — and celebrated their work by eating them.

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Libraries serve many purposes

There is a lot going on in our three Costa Mesa libraries.