What We're Reading: Time of the Child

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
January 7, 2026 1:08 pm

For this month's Adventures in Bookclubbing 'Holiday' theme I read 'Time of the Child' by Niall Williams. The story takes place in Faha, a small community in Ireland during Advent Season, 1962.

What We're Reading: The Merge

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
January 6, 2026 11:48 am

Looking for an original dystopian novel to kick off the New Year? I’m about halfway through 'The Merge' by Grace Walker, and wow—she has created an incredible, unsettling world.

What We're Reading: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
December 24, 2025 9:48 am

Review of 'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever' by Barbara RobinsonIf any of you have ever participated in a Christmas play or pageant for a school or church, or if you had the great honor of directing one, you will surely see yourself in the characters in this book.

File Your Application for College Financial Aid

IOWA STUDENT LOAN
December 23, 2025 5:56 pm

By Rob DensonIowa Student Loan Liquidity Corporation boardFamilies who will have students in college for the 2026-2027 school year should take the first step in the financial aid process now.

Creek Chubs and Eyes

BENTON COUNTY CONSERVATION
December 23, 2025 5:55 pm

By Zach Parmater, Conservation Tech / Ranger Chasing walleye in Iowa’s Cedar river system requires an understanding of how these fish feed within current-driven environments.

What We're Reading - Atomic Habits

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
December 22, 2025 2:55 pm

I recently read 'Atomic Habits' by James Clear, a nonfiction book designed to help the reader develop good habits and break bad ones. Clear's backstory is inspiring; in high school he was on his way towards a promising athletic career when an injury left him in a coma.

Aubrey Gates named to USF Fall 2025 Dean's List

UNIVERSITY OF SIOUX FALLS FALL
December 22, 2025 6:58 am

Aubrey Gates of La Porte City, IA, was named to the University of Sioux Falls Fall 2025 Dean's List. Gates is majoring in Exercise Science.

What We're Reading: Near Flesh

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
December 21, 2025 1:05 pm

Feeling the holiday-time reading crunch? Same! This week’s pick is 'Near Flesh,' a powerful collection of 19 short stories by the late Katherine Dunn, author of 'Geek Love.

What We're Reading: Poems and Prayers

VINTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
December 18, 2025 12:31 pm

Just finished 'Poems and Prayers' by Matthew McConaughey, and honestly, he might be the only person who could get me to read a whole book of poetry. I’ve always loved  his movies and interviews, and this book feels just as authentic as he is.

SUMMER POSITIONS NOW AVAILABLE!

BENTON COUNTY CONSERVATION
December 18, 2025 12:31 pm

We are hiring Conservation Aides and a Naturalist Intern for Summer 2026. These positions are great for those who are interested in conservation, love being outdoors, and enjoy a fun & supportive work environment! Apply today at https://www.