AULANDER – One of the most anticipated events each summer at Sallie Harrell Jenkins Memorial Library in Aulander is the perennial visit from the Aulander Volunteer Fire Department as part of the Summer Reading Program.

On Tuesday, July 19, Fire Chief David Klingler and Firefighters Steven Draper and Austin Hurdle came to the library, first presenting information about fire safety. This segment of the program allowed the youngsters to see the steps a fireman must take as he dresses in the 40-50 pounds of fire-fighting equipment designed to keep the fireman safe while he works to ensure the safety of others. Chief Klingler emphasized that, first and foremost, the fireman is always concerned with protecting human life.

After the Chief’s talk, youngsters were given an opportunity to ask questions. Then, the program moved outside where the participants had an “up-close-and-personal” experience with a fire truck. From seeing the equipment the fire truck must carry, to climbing on the truck, to blowing the siren, to spraying the hose, those in attendance had a wonderful time learning about the work of the Aulander Volunteer Fire Department.

Not only were a number of children in attendance, but several adults were present as well, including Aulander resident James Futrell who has accompanied several of his grandchildren to each of the programs this summer as he has during many summers past.

Other programs this summer have featured a magician, animals from the North Carolina Aquarium, teachers as story tellers, Fat Cat from the State Employees’ Credit Union, and maintenance and road trucks from the Town of Aulander.

The final program for this year’s Summer Reading series will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 16 at the library, located at 302 Broad Street in Aulander. It will feature Jane Barmer, member of the Sallie Harrell Jenkins Memorial Library Board of Trustees and former employee of Bertie County Public Schools.

For more information regarding programs and services of SHJ Library, a branch of Albemarle Regional Library, call 252-345-4461.