SMYRNA – On Thursday afternoon the Smyrna Public Library featured children's author and illustrator Suzanne Bloom as part of its summer reading series.

“I wanted to encourage reading and use of the library through cultural experiences for the children that are open to the family,” said Stacie Beers, Library Director, and explained that activities are scheduled on Thursdays throughout the month of July.

Last week's program was animal drawing with artist Mary Beth Dolan from StART Here Studio in Hamlin, NY. She drew cartoon animals on an easel for all of the children, who then practiced drawing their own animals.

“They really did well with it,” Beers said. “I try to do hands on activities and have people come in and teach art skills.”

This Thursday, 18 children came to Smyrna's Town Hall and interacted with Bloom. She has been an author for 25 years and is from McDonough. She sat on the table in front of the group of students and proceeded to read a story about magic. After the reading, Bloom brought out various containers full of decorations so that every child could make his or her own magic wand. There were also stars to decorate for the younger children so they could make their own wishing stars.