Library Hosts Free Public Safety Programs

The Washington Parish Library is partnering with the Franklinton Police Department to bring a series of public safety programs to the public. Sgt. Jared Stubbs will be leading the programs at the Franklinton Branch at 825 Free St. The first program is set for 6pm on Wednesday, March 15th and will focus on general safety tips that everyone should know.

Library Director Sonnet Ireland states, “I’m extremely excited about this new partnership. We will be hosting these programs every few months with sessions focused on general public safety, protecting your children online, and even tips on staying safe while dating.”

The second program, focused on how parents and guardians can keep their kids safe online, is currently planned for June as part of the Summer Reading Program. Ireland explains, “This year’s Summer Reading theme is All Together Now. I think that’s a perfect opportunity to learn what we can do to keep our children safe–especially with so many dangers online. Things have changed a lot since we were kids, so it’s important to make sure adults know what to be on the lookout for.”

While the program is focused on Franklinton right now, Ireland assures that this is just the beginning, “We are developing so many exciting community partnerships that are really going to help our patrons. We are working to create a similar program at the Bogalusa Branch with the Bogalusa Police Department. Eventually, we’d like to see similar programs at the other branches with our local law enforcement officers for those areas. On top of that, we are working on a series of First Responder Story Times where kids will get to meet police officers, firefighters, paramedics, 911 operators, and more.”

These public safety programs start Wednesday, March 15th at 6pm in the Franklinton Branch. Refreshments will be provided, courtesy of the Friends of the Washington Parish Library. The event is free and open to the public.