This year, we’re celebrating play at the library! Everyone knows how beneficial play is for kids, but did you know that it is equally important for adults? It can be a wonderful stress reliever, boosts creativity, alleviates boredom, and may even lower your blood pressure. To that end, every month in 2024, we’re highlighting a different form of play. Each month we’ll have a bingo-style fun card. If you complete all the activities for a blackout on your card, you’ll receive a special prize. The more of the 12 monthly fun cards you complete this year, the better chance you have to win the grand prize and be crowned our annual play champion!
For June, we’re celebrating all things travel. When you travel for pleasure, your stress reduces, your mental health improves, and your horizons are broadened. It’s the epitome of the phrase “fun and educational.”
Though you may think of traveling as a modern activity, travel is hardly a 20th or 21st century phenomenon. The Ancient Romans were no slouches when it came to traveling, be it for war, government administration, business, or fun, and they were noted for their prowess at road-building. Did you know that you can still travel on these ancient Roman roads in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia today?
Did you know that Romans loved to travel to spa towns? In addition to destinations in Italy, places as diverse as Bath, England, and Budapest, Hungary, have all been noted for their spas since ancient times.
Did you know the Grand Tour used to be a rite of passage for wealthy young British and American men? Young men would travel to Paris, Rome, and more to learn more about art, history, and culture. This journey was considered a key aspect of their education.
Did you know some of the most visited tourist sites in the world include the Las Vegas Strip, the Eiffel Tower, and Times Square?
Did you know some of the most visited attractions in Arkansas are virtually next door to us? They include Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, Buffalo National Park, and Eureka Springs’ sites.
To complete our play card, though, you don’t have to go anywhere. You can travel around the world from the comfort of your couch (or kitchen) as you read books, watch movies, cook (or eat) food, and play games from 9 different countries of your choice.
For more ideas about local adventures you can undertake, adventure books you can read, and information on the Friends of the Berryville Library’s Make It A Summer of Adventure raffle (today’s the last week to buy tickets before the drawing this Saturday, June 8th!), check out our adventure booklet. You can also pick up a copy at the library!
What’s your favorite travel destination? What are your travel plans for the summer? What’s your favorite way to play? Tell us in the comments!
Berryville Book Buzz 