“The process of not just accessing cannabis but then learning how to use it in a medical way is very overwhelming,” explained Shannon Livingston, co-founder of The Livingston Foundation. And it’s not right for every patient, she added. But that shouldn’t prevent parents from learning more on the subject.

“My hope is that through education, we can get to a point where cannabis is the first-line treatment, not the last resort,” Livingston said. Especially as more conditions are added to the list that allow you to qualify for a medical card.

Livingston knows first-hand about the stigma associated with using marijuana. She willingly talks about how she self-medicated with cannabis for more than 20 years after a breast implant ruptured and contaminated her system with microorganisms. “Infection took over my whole body,” she said, of what first led her to cannabis. “I developed an autoimmune disorder that causes your skin and mucus membrane to blister and disintegrate.”

At the time, she was a single mom living in Kansas City, Mo., and doctors prescribed some 17 different medications to fight the symptoms. But those meds left her unable to care properly for her young son. Her brother offered an alternative: Livingston should self-medicate by smoking weed. “It made a big difference to me,” she recalled, of that initial experience. “But I couldn’t talk about it. … I was just smoking. I didn’t know any other way to do it.”

Eventually, Livingston went to Colorado and discovered cannabidiol (CBD), which is one of the active ingredients in cannabis, and its medicinal benefits. But unlike the product her brother introduced her to, CBD doesn’t get you “high” like the psychoactive ingredient TCH (Tetrahydro-

cannabinol) does. After taking a CBD oil, she felt like her old self. Gone were all the nasty drug side effects. “The nausea, fatigue, migraines; everything weird that came along with being sick had vanished – and there was no trade-off,” Livingston said of first taking CBD. “I had to learn why this oil was working.” She vowed to learn all she could.

Livingston calls herself autodidactic, after attending numerous seminars, symposiums, conferences, and classes as well as attending Oaksterdam University (self- described as America’s first cannabis university located in Oakland, Calif.) in her pursuit to learn more about cannabis. But she readily admits there is no educational standard in cannabis. “Nothing makes me an expert.”

Along the way, Livingston has met other patients as well as parents of patients. She points to one little girl who helped changed the cannabis-is-medicine narrative: Charlotte Figi. Featured in the CNN four-part docuseries, “Weed,” viewers see the child go from catatonic to walking, talking, and playing like her healthy twin, Chase. Diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome (a severe type of epilepsy with seizures), Charlotte suffered from some 300 seizures a week before she began taking a strain of cannabis that has a low level of THC but is really high in CBD. That strain was named Charlotte’s Web after the then five-year-old patient. “People learned Charlotte’s Web instead of marijuana. It’s kid-friendly; we all are familiar with the book,” Livingston said.

Another child was Gavin Lawrey, who suffers from mitochondrial disease, a con- dition that prevents cells in his body from getting enough oxygen so they die off. The Livingston Foundation produced a public service announcement featuring the boy that aired just before the Amendment 2 vote in Florida. “Gavin explains what cannabis is and what his medicine does,” Livingston said. “That little boy is alive because of can- nabis. His doctors and his parents absolutely agree.” Gavin’s mother, Brandi Lawrey, now serves as the foundation’s vice president.

Deciding on the Registry

When a patient in Florida is diagnosed with a qualifying condition for medical marijuana, the physician enters the order into the Medical Marijuana Use Registry on the Florida Department of Health website. After the order is entered, the patient applies for a Medical Marijuana Use Registry Identification Card. While medical marijuana is available in Florida, it remains illegal under federal law.

Deciding if the Medical Marijuana Use Registry is the right fit for the patient and the family is difficult, Livingston recognizes. She has learned to educate the whole family together, and when a family has questions – regardless of who is the patient, parent or child – that typically involves a discussion in the family’s living room over a pizza. “It’s education one-on-one … and confidential,” she stressed, of the foundation’s approach. “Because cannabis is newly available, it’s important, especially for kids, to understand that this medicine is called cannabis or medical marijuana, but it’s not what they learned about in school.”

Despite this, some families still choose not to remain in the registry even when it’s effective medically. “They felt there was too much stigma. They didn’t want their friends finding out,” she said. That goes for children, too. Both as a patient and as a child of a patient. But Livingston wants potential patients to understand: our health information is HIPAA-protected. “We don’t go to school [and say] ‘Mommy’s taking her Xanax.’ We don’t have that conversation. It’s up to you whether you want to discuss your health or not.”

Livingston does encourage individuals and their caretakers to share their story, especially if it is a positive experience. “When someone you know and trust has a story [about using medical marijuana], that’s when hearts and minds open to facts and figures,” she stated. “I can’t walk up to someone who is anti-medical cannabis and change their mind with a 20-minute conversation. But if their granddaughter goes from 20 seizures a day to having none after taking cannabis, then they are Googling it and are open to it.”

While those stories – even Charlotte’s – may seem anecdotal to some, Livingston wants everyone to have medical choice. Her foundation helps connect those already in the registry to someone considering entering it. Parents may not be ready to jump into a doctor’s appointment for their child and just want a safe environment to have their questions answered. “Responsible parents should have a lot of questions,” explained Livingston. “Any big decision should be well thought out, well researched and we try to help with that.”

What is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained in popularity and is sold legally at many retail outlets throughout SWFL and in 30 other states. CBD can be ex- tracted from both hemp and cannabis plants, but CBD hemp oil contains less than 0.3 percent THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol).

CBD oil sold at medical dispensaries in Lee County contains a higher percentage of TCH than those products sold at vape shops, and you need a medical card to purchase it.

Athina Kyritsis, MD, of Green Palms Health & Wellness in Naples, explained that CBD is known to work for a variety of ailments and doesn’t require a doctor’s prescription. “I recommend cannabidiol, or CBD, as a segue into medical marijuana while a patient waits for a state-issued medical marijuana card,” she explained.

While these products are not without controversy, the child’s well-being must be first priority, Kyritsis said. “Unfortunately, backlash will happen and all anyone can do is respectfully educate with correct information,” she added. “The health of a child must come before social acceptance of the treatment.”

For more information, call 239-682- 1812 or visit Livingstonfoundation.org and floridahealth.gov.

The post Demystifying Medical Marijuana appeared first on SWFL Family.

Experience a whole new world in Orlando – and skip the visit to see that little black-and-white mouse, because the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate offers enough attractions to satisfy every age: Dad can enjoy a round of golf, Mom can have a relaxing spa experience, and the kids can take a plunge down the 125-foot water slide or float along the lazy river. If grandma and grandpa come along, they can spend the day in the shade in a poolside cabana, and since the Omni is pet-friendly, your furry friend can come too.

After undergoing a $40 million renovation, the Omni has added more guest rooms, another zero-entry kids’ pool, and a wave pool. The additional 93 guest rooms are designed to accommodate families in a two-, three- or four-bedroom combination. Families may opt for a villa, which has a full kitchen. (Ask about Omni’s grocery delivery service.) Florida resident rates are available, as well as other packages that include golf lessons with tee times or spa treatments, and if you do choose to visit Walt Disney World, there is a daily shuttle.

My family stayed in adjoining guest rooms, overlooking the pools, in the main hotel tower. The king bed was luxurious and had more than enough pillows to go around. Ask for feather pillows for an additional comfort; the front desk was happy to honor my request. In the next room, there were two comfy queen beds, identical to the king bed. My family of five had enough space – and TVs – to keep everyone happy. Having two bathrooms made getting dressed for dinner a breeze.

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Omni hosts its 102 Days of Summer Fun campaign. Guests can take part in dive-in movies, splash parties, cooking demonstrations, golf clinics, and more. On select days, the resort has a fireworks show. Other family-friendly activities include a miniature golf course, a par 3, nine-hole golf course as well as the recently renovated international golf course. (The national golf course is being renovated.) Take a golf lesson at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy, even if you’ve never picked up a club before.

I took a golf lesson and in just one hour, I was swinging my club with more precision. The coach, Michael Sanabria, showed me simple ways to grip my club. That lesson really helped when I played miniature golf with my kids, but avoid playing in the early evening when the mosquitos come out in droves. Don’t miss watching the sunset outside on the golf course, but bring bug repellent.

The best way to enjoy those balmy summer days is relaxing poolside. The formal pool is an elegant escape for kid-free couples, especially if you reserve a cabana. The covered area has comfortable, cushioned chaise lounges and comes stocked with a refrigerator filled with beverages and a fruit plate. There is a TV and a ceiling fan, and Wi-Fi access. The new zero-entry pool also has cabanas, making it a comfortable – and shaded – place to relax, especially if you have a baby or toddler. The Omni sells swim diapers for $2 at the pool hut. That was a blessing for me, since I ran out.

Families can take a dip in the original zero-entry family pool, where older kids can ride the 125-foot corkscrew water slide or organize a game of water basketball with new friends. Try the lazy river too, where guests can float along the 850-foot river on an inner tube while dodging the water obstacles. Beware, those can strike, waking you up from a peaceful ride. Enjoy one of the three new water slides; little kids can sit on Mom or Dad’s lap while going down the largest, middle slide. Another must-do is taking a dip in the wave pool. The Omni is the first resort in Orlando to have a wave pool.

If you’re hungry, the Omni has plenty of options. At Trevi’s, guests can sample Italian fare served family style. (The meatballs are scrumptious!) It is an affordable option for large parties, but don’t miss the breakfast buffet served daily. It’s an enormous feast that is worth the splurge. Every morning of our stay, my kids couldn’t wait to pile their plates with bacon and get a specialty omelet from Ana, who will create any concoction imagined. The service was impeccable, like all of the Omni staff delivers.

On the main lobby floor, you will find David’s Club, an upscale sports bar, but the only thing resembling a sports bar is the large TV. I didn’t stay for cocktails, but our dinner at David’s Club was fabulous. Next time, I’ll send my kids to Omni Kids Escape ($12/ hour per kid) and eat a relaxing meal with my spouse.

Zen is another option for an evening meal, where guests can enjoy Pan-Asian cuisine. For something different, sign up for the sushi making class, $12. It’s fun learning how to craft California rolls. I thought the class was a real treat, learning the precise amount of pressure it takes to cut a sushi roll. Even kids can get in on the fun, but those knives are very sharp.

If getting out of your chaise lounge is too much effort, dine at Croc’s while sitting poolside. Waiters will deliver your morsels to you, or if liquid libations are more your speed, choose from an array of cocktails, either frozen or on the rocks.

Grab a pack of s’mores at the Broadway Deli for roasting at the fire pit. My city kids really loved burning their marshmallows, but parental guidance was need to avoid poking other guests enjoying the fire.

While the hotel was spread out, it was not so big that you need transportation to get around. If you stay in a villa, which are situated away from the main hotel tower, it may be a trek to get your family, especially little kids who aren’t walking, to the pools.

LEIGH TAHIROVIC is a wife and mother who loves traveling and Civil War History. She moved to Naples in 2001 and began a career in journalism. She is a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers in South Florida.

The post The Omni Orlando Beckons Families appeared first on SWFL Family.

The Top 10 Reasons to Cross the Jolley Bridge

Whether you are looking for a daylong outing or a weekend getaway, Marco Island offers an alluring atmosphere full of world-class resorts, gorgeous beaches, and scrumptious seafood. A short distance from the Ten Thousand Islands, the island is also your gateway to outdoor adventures and eco-tours. Plus, Marco is steeped in Southwest Florida history, giving even locals an excuse to explore. Here are 10 reasons to take a trip south, across the Jolley Bridge.

The Marriott

The Marriott opened even before the Jolley Bridge was four lanes, and recently became the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, after a $250-million renovation that is still underway. Stay at this beachfront resort in one of its redesigned guest rooms and dine at the new restaurants, but should you want a weekend sans kids, soon you can stay in the adult-only tower with a roof-top pool and 12,000-square-feet indoor entertainment room. The renovations, which have taken more than two years, feature a redesigned and expanded main pool deck. Don’t fret, the multimillion dollar views remain the same.

Marco Museum

Come learn that Marco Island was home to some of Florida’s earliest settlers, the Calusa Indians. Inside the Marco Island Historical Museum, you can see a replica of a Calusa Indian village, complete with exhibits that showcase how these natives lived in the 1500s when Spanish explorers first discovered them. A new exhibit, “What’s Old is Not Forgotten,” opened in June and features local photography works of famous landmarks, such as the famous Cape Romano Dome House and the Horr Plantation House. While visiting, look at the building’s unique architecture and outdoor mural, and use both to educate your children. The museum is free to tour and is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

The beaches

Don’t forget your Collier County beach parking sticker before going to Marco Island, or it will cost you to park at its two major beach access points: Tigertail Beach and South Beach. The former, situated near Big Marco Pass, offers beachgoers plenty of reasons to stay for the day, including beach rentals, a children’s playground, food vendors, and restrooms. Since it’s a designated wildlife area, Tigertail is home to many shorebirds and has a unique tidal lagoon. Every winter, there are wildlife birding talks on select days. South Beach allows beachgoers to access the Gulf of Mexico and is nestled between several plush, luxury resorts. Many athletic enthusiasts begin their outdoor adventures here. There are also restrooms.

The parks

Mackle Park has one of the nicest outdoor playgrounds in Collier County. It has a pavilion for shaded play, and the splash pad beckons those who need a cooldown after exploring the castle-style play area. Take a walk around the lake for a nice shaded stroll. Or visit Veterans Community Park where a farmers market is held every Wednesday from early November to late April. The wide-open space is where numerous community events are hosted year-round.

The YMCA

Fitness enthusiasts can work out in The Greater Marco Family YMCA’s state-of-the-art fitness center, but families are the ones who really benefit from the facilities. Kids can compete on the Y’s swim team, learning from one of the best swim coaches in Collier County, Coach Kamal. Or snag a deal on swim lessons this July – three lessons for just $10 (restrictions apply). Summer camp is another draw to the Marco Y, featuring theme weeks and fieldtrips for campers. And kids can take cooking classes in the teaching kitchen. Best of all, members of the Greater Naples YMCA receive reciprocal benefits.

The golf

Add some friendly family competition with a visit to Marco Golf and Garden, where you can enjoy a round of miniature golf. A garden, complete with native plants and trees, is the backdrop to this fun course where even “pro” golfers will find entertainment. Or see if you can play at the Island Country Club, where invited guests can play 18 holes on this championship course originally designed by pro golfer Gene Sarazen in 1966. It was reconfigured in 1991 with new bunkers and water features.

The food

Get a glimpse of Marco’s beautiful inland waterways while eating at the Snook Inn. It’s known for its outdoor dining and live music, but the food is why locals call it a place-not-to-miss. The fried shrimp basket is a crowd-pleaser, and since every meal comes with trip to the salad bar, even kids will get a vegetable. If you’re in the mood for Italian, try Joey’s Pizza. Whether you choose the Sicilian or the regular crust pizza, your kids will love every bite, and their prices won’t take a bite out of your wallet, especially when you eat their lunch specials. At breakfast, you can visit Doreen’s Cup of Joe (next door to Joey’s) where the omelets are mouthwatering. Another favorite (from the lunch menu) is the Oven Roasted Turkey Breast with Brie Cheese croissant.

The entertainment

If your island adventure is plagued by rain or cold temperatures, head indoors to the Marco Movies. Showtimes are very regular at (close to) 3-, 6- and 9-o’clock hour with matinees on weekends for select shows. Every seat offers optimal viewing and has a place to enjoy the full menu. Or choose one of the two playhouses: the Island Theater Company and The Marco Players Theater. The community playhouses put on several productions a year, and the Island Theater Company produces a children’s show in the summer.

Adult adventures

It doesn’t need to be October to get a fright on Marco Island. Take a historical ghost tour with Marco Murder and Mayhem, where tour-goers begin their adventure at Marco’s oldest building, the Olde Marco Inn, which is haunted by ghosts from Marco’s early pioneer period. Or test your wits at Xtreme Escape Games, where you and seven others will be trapped in a room, left to solve the puzzle to get out. Parents, it is recommended that no one under 14 take part in the game.

The events

Marco Island is possibly best known for its holiday events and parades. Every year, the Fourth of July festivities and fireworks show attracts about 12,000 people. The daylong event has contests, live music, and food vendors making it a fun-filled day on Marco’s beautiful beaches. The island’s parades – St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas – are lively and navigate through most of the island’s major roadways, where parade-goers can watch the floats pass by. But the Marco Island Seafood and Music Festival, held in March, is the island’s largest event of the year. The three-day festival overtakes Veterans Community Park and features some 60 food vendors and has a dedicated kids zone. Buy a VIP ticket which comes with a lobster meal! And every December, visitors can celebrate the season at Christmas Island Style events throughout the month. One popular attraction is the Christmas light house decorating contest, where many of the island’s homes and businesses are decked out in holiday regalia. Or watch Santa Claus arrive by helicopter as a kick-off.

LEIGH TAHIROVIC is a wife and mother who loves traveling and Civil War History. She moved to Naples in 2001 and began a career in journalism. She is a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers in South Florida.

The post Marvelous Marco appeared first on SWFL Family.

Three Local Fathers Share How Their Lives Revolve Around Their Children

Today’s fathers are more involved with their children’s lives than ever before, so to celebrate Father’s Day, Neapolitan Family spoke to three dads about their experiences as hands-on parents, and the wisdom they’d like to pass on.

John Moll

John Moll is a self-proclaimed “Mr. Mom.” But at age 61, his story is not typical; he had been retired two years from a career in banking when Michael came along. Now his 17-year-old son, a junior at Naples High School, is preparing for college.

“We never 
thought we’d have
 children,” Moll said,
of having Michael later 
in life with his wife,
 Gerri. “It’s been the 
best thing that’s ever 
happened to the both 
of us.” Once Michael
was born, John said 
he had to come out of
 retirement to care for
a newborn, giving up his near-daily trips to the golf course. “My new career became being a stay-at-home dad. It’s been very rewarding.” If he can name a regret, it’s not having more children. “I really have nothing I would trade but maybe having another child,” John added. “It’s been memories of a lifetime.”

John’s used to being the only dad around. When Michael was a toddler, John was typically the only male/dad in the room, but he reveled in it. “We had babies in common. Some of my closest friends are females.” Once his son entered preschool, John started volunteering, serving on the PTO of every school Michael attended. “One of my biggest [joys] is being able to spend my time and volunteer at his school, to help teachers and administration in any way that I can to make it a better environment,” John said. “We are very blessed with the schools and the school system here.”

He calls fatherhood a “great experience,” but admits his age influenced his outlook. “I had a few more life experiences … but I expect my son to be very focused.” Part of his Type A personality rubbed off on Michael, who is a competitive tennis player and an AP student. “We gave our son a solid foundation, a great study and work ethic that I hope he carries on to his wife and family.” And John firmly believes that his son is not spoiled. “My son really earns the life he enjoys today.”

While John’s path to fatherhood is somewhat unique, he said the decision must be a family one, with each spouse assessing the situation. “It can’t be one doing it all, with one just skating along,” John said. “Communication is what makes it work in our house, what’s best for our family, our son.”

Now that Michael can drive, John’s duties have shifted back to the activity he enjoyed early in his retirement: playing golf. He also has added playing competitive softball to his roster. But sitting in car line is one daily duty that he doesn’t miss. His advice to other dads is to enjoy every day. “Before you blink an eye, they will be gone and off to college.”

Austin Gomez

Austin Gomez, 40, is used to swapping caregiver duty for his three children, Carlos, 6; Evelyn, 4; and Christian, 3 months, with his wife Julie. Austin, the assistant band director for Gulf Coast High School, shuttles his three kids to school and other activities several days a week. The family’s schedule revolves around Austin’s busy band calendar, and Julie works part-time as a jewelry consultant and high school math tutor.

“I’m not resentful. I’m glad that I’ve been there for them,” Austin said, of caring for his children when his wife is working. “We made the choice for Julie to stay home, to raise the kids, but [her working part time] is the only way to make ends meet.”

There are new challenges, he said, since Christian was born. “I don’t want to put him down, and the [older] kids have had to be a little more self-serving,” Austin said. But he realizes the time is fleeting and tells other dads to embrace it. “Don’t lose sight of what’s at the end of the tunnel,” he said, “That the kids will become elementary age and they won’t need as much hands on.”

Part of his fatherly satisfaction comes from surviving the chaos each evening, of getting his kids fed and put to bed. “The evenings, from 7:30 to 9:30, are pretty chaotic,” Austin said. “It’s hard to juggle them.” One of his favorite times is eating dinner together. “I enjoy picking my kids’ brains when we talk at dinner, hearing about their day,” Austin added.

His own father was a “working dad,” busy running the family business while Austin was growing up, so having this experience is different from his upbringing. “I try to make a concerted effort to turn off work when I get home. I am fortunate that I don’t have to do much paper grading.” He suggests that other dads strike a balance between work and home, to stay engaged with their kids.

Austin recognizes that his situation is not unique, noting that most dads nowadays must help around the house. That insight has led to a better appreciation of what his wife does every day. “It’s easier when we are all together,” Austin said, “For the majority of the middle class, it’s a rarity if a dad doesn’t have to do this.”

Tom Foreman

Tom Foreman, 40, became a dad three years ago when he married Laquisha. Nowadays, the new dad is busy taking care of Talayia, 15; Jada, 14; and Savion, 7 (Thomas, 20, is out of the family home). Gone are his bachelor days, but he is happy to be in his new role.

“I cook breakfast, prepare lunches and snacks for after school,” said Foreman, of his daily dad duties. “I make sure [the kids] have what they need. I do most of the shopping and the laundry, keep the house clean, and make sure homework is done.” But his main job, he said, is to “do anything that I can do to make my wife’s life a little easier.” And she’s a busy mom, working 40-plus hours each week traveling for her job in marketing.

Fatherhood has changed since Foreman’s dad raised him. “[My dad] was a traditional guy, like all guys back then,” said Foreman, noting that if his mother was out of town, dinner consisted of delivery pizza. “What it takes to run a family [now] is different than it was in the ‘50s and ‘60s,” he added.

One of his greatest pleasures is making Sunday breakfast for the family, calling it a smorgasbord. “I love to cook. There’s always a reward at the end,” said Foreman. But some of his struggles have been in the fluff-and-fold department, citing a history of shrinking clothes. “My least favorite part is laundry, to fold it and put it away. I can’t make a deal with anyone to put away the laundry.”

Foreman said his dad duties are “like running a business, where you have a budget, and someone is responsible for the house.” There is a lot of planning that goes into his duties and he’s good at prioritizing, and because he was always independent, it’s not a struggle. “I grew up in the latchkey generation, always taking care of myself.” Now that’s he’s added four more people to care for, he’s up to the task. “I love my family, so I want to take care of them,” he said.

His advice to other dads is to “find happiness” in whatever you do. And for someone who was living the single life just a short while ago, Foreman thinks his insight into fatherhood gives him a unique outlook. “They call me their Dad … that’s who I am.”

LEIGH TAHIROVIC is a wife and mother who loves traveling and Civil War History. She moved to Naples in 2001 and began a career in journalism. She is a freelance writer for magazines and newspapers in South Florida.

The post Dads on Duty appeared first on SWFL Family.

2. Adult Programs. A large selection of adult programs – including those for book lovers like book discussions, the Meet the Author series and the Mystery Book Club for those who love the crime/mystery genre – are hosted at every library. Adults can register for programs such as fitness classes or attend lectures about health care and Ted Talks. Hobbyists can opt for programs on coloring books and stamping. The Feature Film Series is enticing, too. A new calendar of offerings is released each month. Registration is required for most programs, which can fill up fast. Look for printed brochures in the library or visit www.Collierlibrary.org/programs. 

3. Movies. Check out the hottest DVDs from the library for free, and keep for up to one week! Each library cardholder can check out 10 titles as well as reserve them. Are you a Game of Thrones junkie but don’t subscribe to HBO? Every season, including the latest one, is available. Twice a month a list of new arrivals is revealed, and patrons can place those newly acquired titles on hold. And recently, the library has added Blu-Ray titles to its collection, on a limited basis.

4. Magazines and newspapers. Do you like holding a newspaper in your hand? You can read from the 16 newspaper selections at various branches. Prefer magazines? Nearly 200 titles are available. Patrons can check out past issues while the current issue is only accessible in-house. The library also maintains the Naples Daily News on microfilm from 1927 to 2008. 

5. Downloads. Electronic reading has become so popular that the Collier library maintains a collection of audiobooks and eBooks available for checkout. Create an account and use your library card to access the offerings and download them to your computer or portable device. Two systems are offered. You can choose checkout lengths of either 14 or 21 days. Zinio allows cardholders to access eMagazines electronically as well. Download the Zinio app for mobile access.

6. Story time. Kids love story time at the Collier libraries. There are three options for different ages: Mother Goose Time, ages 

3 to 15 months; Toddler Story Time, ages 16 to 35 months; and Music and Movement, ages 3 to 5 years. A new Family Story Time recently started on Saturdays. Times vary but all are offered at the Headquarters Regional Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. Registration is required except for Family Story Time. The Naples Regional Library offers Combined Story Time for all ages, and the Estates Branch Library hosts Toddler Story Time and Preschool Story Time; registration is not required at either of these libraries. Other libraries host a Walk-In Activity Time on different days. 

7. Kids’ programs. Entertain the kids with fun programs at various libraries every month. Programs vary but some previous options include Pokémon Go Scavenger Hunts, Frozen Singalongs, Valentine Workshops, Penny Olympics (where children will complete penny challenges to support Presidents’ Day), and the Pups ‘n’ Books program, where kids read to a dog – or just pet one. Each summer, the library system hosts a program for kids. This year’s theme is Build A Better World, where kids will learn about architecture and about building better relationships. The East Naples Branch Library offers different science-related programs. 

8. Computers. Cardholders can use the computers for surfing the Internet or for other electronic needs. Specific computers are reserved for any age, while some branches have children’s rooms where computers have access to age-appropriate online games. Even middle schoolers have a place reserved just for them (varies at each library). Plus, libraries have printers and photocopiers available for a fee.

9. Live music/performances. Adults and children alike will be entertained with live performances and musical concerts. Offerings vary each month but some previous events were An Historic 1940s Concert, featuring some of America’s greatest popular-music composers; The Cat In The Hat, where an improv troupe presented an adaptation of the classical Dr. Seuss story; and Presidents and Their First Ladies, Dramatically Speaking, which brought James Madison and his wife Dolley Todd to life. The South Regional Library also features a different artist exhibit from January to March.

10. Career center. Need help finding a new job? Then check out the Brainfuse HelpNow center. Cardholders can get employment assistance including access to national and local job search engines, help crafting and critiquing a resume, or learn proven interview techniques for professional and service-related fields. There’s help for Spanish speakers, too.

11. LEAP (library electronic assistant program). Have trouble operating that new tablet, eReader, smartphone, or computer? Knowledgeable high school students provide free tech help at seven library locations. Hours are by appointment only. Call your library for more information. The program is provided by the Friends of the Library of Collier County. 

12. Book sales. At least once a year, the library hosts a book sale. If you a member of the Friends of the Library of Collier County, you have a chance for a sneak peek on the members-only preview night. The sale opens to the public the next day and runs four days. The spring sale is March 1-4 at the Naples Regional Library, 650 Central Ave. Preview night is February 28.

13. Genealogy research. The Naples Regional Library has a Genealogy Room, which houses basic and intermediate resources, including books and periodicals. 

Plus, cardholders also have free access to websites such as Ancestry.com and AmericanAncestors.org as well as local and national genealogy sites through library computers. Volunteers can help if you need assistance starting your genealogy search. 

14. Mail-a-book. Collier County residents who are physically unable to come to the library can take part in the Mail-A-Book program. If you are homebound due to a disability, you may request items by phone, mail, or email, and those library materials will be mailed in a special bag to your home. You also can get large print books and audiobooks. Patrons may return the items by mail.

15. Learn a language with Mango. Cardholders can set up an online account to learn 72 languages and take specialty courses. There’s an app for mobile devices.

16. Homework help for kids. In Brainfuse (see number 10), kids can access live tutors in math, science, reading, writing, and history, as well as for help with GED and college placement tests. In the 24-Hour Writing Lab, students can submit essays for feedback. Or submit a homework-related question for expert guidance. There is also a multitude of offerings for elementary, middle, and high schoolers. Visit Collierlibrary.org/backtoschool.

17. STEAM. The library hosts programs related to the public-school system’s STEAM program, which stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Various STEAM programs held at different branches have featured robots, Ozobots, snap circuits, Lego, and more. Keep an eye out for these programs in the months to come.

18. Downloadable academic books. Cardholders can download and access eBooks. Conduct a search to see available options or narrow your findings for a more specific search. The database aids in prepping those research papers required for a high school or college course. 

19. Meeting rooms. Need a place for a club meeting or to host a group? Cardholders can reserve a room online, for a fee. Or you can use one, if available, for a quiet place to study. At the South Regional Library, there is a large 330-seat meeting room you can reserve. It is equipped with a microphone, speakers, and projector. 

20. Staff. Many of the library’s offerings are web-based, but if you are not sure 

how to use them, the library staff will teach you. Each month, a Learn eResources @ Your Library program is hosted at the South Regional Library, the Vanderbilt Beach Branch Library, the East Naples Branch Library, and the Naples Regional Library. Bring your device and library staff will help you with all the programs and eResources above. Reservations are not required, but times vary at each location.

For more information, visit www.collierlibrary.org

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