The Poplar Bluff Municipal Library has new attractions for patrons: a scrap metal sculpture exhibit, STEM kits and a gardening class.
The library is proud to announce Jeff Bishop’s “Steampunk Sculptures” exhibit is on display at its Main Street and Kanell Boulevard locations. Bishop is a local artist who welds scrap parts together to create unique vehicles. His sculptures will be available for viewing at both library locations from now until the end of September.
In his artist’s statement, Bishop says: “I grew up logging and hauling hay and cutting tobacco in Central Missouri. I’ve been around heavy equipment all my life. In 1987, I was hired onto a heating manufacturing company in Boonville, Missouri.
“To this day, I’m with the same company in Poplar Bluff. Over the years it has transitioned into an HVAC company where I have been one of the maintenance technicians.
“About three years ago, I bought a 1970s model pop can airplane and deconstructed it to learn how to make one, and I did it. I made one! Then it was off to making steampunk art. I know how equipment is made so I’m able to weld spark plugs, bearings, and miscellaneous scrap parts together until it takes the shape of what I have in mind. It’s a lot of fun and a great hobby, but sometimes finding parts that are usable is very hard. I love when people are creative and I thought I would share some of my creativity with the public.”
Adult Services Librarian Alora Bauer can provide further information about the exhibit. Her email is adultservices@poplarbluff.org. Bauer also invites local artists interested in submitting their work for consideration to contact her.
Registration is open for the latest installment of “Can You Dig It? Kids’ Gardening Adventures,” taught by Extension Master Gardener Rebecca Tindall.
Tindall will give a presentation called “Parts of Plants We Eat” from a book by Janet Stevens entitled “Tops and Bottoms” at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 16, at the main branch. A tasting party is also planned. This free class is geared toward ages 6-15 and is limited to 15 participants. Attendees must pre-register at poplarbluff.org/classes or by calling 573-686-8639.
The library is also distributing a new collection of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Kits for children 8-12 years old along with their caregivers and teachers. Each kit contains a nonfiction book and two corresponding hands-on learning activities. Topics covered include space, geology, measuring, number patterns, coding, engineering and more.
The library received a total of 28 kits from a grant supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State. STEM Kits are available at the Main and Ridgel locations for a three-week checkout. For more information about STEM Kits, contact Belinda Birrer, Children and Youth Services Librarian, at the library’s main number or by email at childrens@poplarbluff.org.
The Poplar Bluff Library and its staff can be reached at 573-686-8639. The main branch is located at 318 N. Main St. and is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday to Saturday. The Ridgel Branch is located at 3398 Kanell Boulevard and is open 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. For more information, go to poplarbluff.org or call 573-686-8639.