What is the

connection between a public library and a giant slide?

Libraries can

be fun, they are free and offer families a chance to be together, just

like giant slides at a fun fest.

In that vein,

the Fayette County Public Library and the Friends of the Library conducted

the fourth annual Family Fun Fest this past weekend and were blown away

when over 2,000 youngsters and adults dropped by.

Families participated

in face painting, balloon sculpture, carnival games, road races and "bazillions"

of arts and crafts. Hot dogs, sodas, ice cream and cotton candy were available

for the asking.

Library director

Christeen Snell said she was encouraged by the turnout. "Learning

is fun and exciting," she said. "Libraries are free and the

events at our fun fest were free. It is a way for parents and children

to share time with each other. We issued 50 new library cards during the

festival."

Among the exhibitors

were Fayette County Safe Kids, Fayetteville Police Department, AARP, and

the Fayette County Health Department. Cholesterol and blood pressure screenings

were offered inside the library.