December 4, 2024

Bringing FREE Books to Central Virginia: The Dolly Parton Imagination Library

Imagine a world where every child, regardless of circumstances, grows up with a library of books of their own. Thanks to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, that dream is becoming a reality here in Central Virginia. Through Imagination Library RVA, families in our community now have the opportunity to access this remarkable program that fosters literacy and nurtures the joy of reading.

How Does It Work?
If you have a child aged 0 to 5, you can enroll them in the Imagination Library program. Once enrolled, your child will receive a free book every month, delivered directly to your mailbox, until their fifth birthday. Each book arrives with your child’s name on it, making the experience extra special.

Why It Matters
Dolly Parton started this initiative inspired by her father, who couldn’t read. She promised to help ensure future generations have access to books, regardless of their financial situation. Starting in Tennessee, this program has now expanded across the United States and even to three other countries. It’s more than just books—it’s an investment in a child’s future, helping them build vocabulary, emotional understanding, and a love for stories.

Start Reading Today
Reading to your child doesn’t have to be a grand production. Whether it’s during a car ride or while waiting at the doctor’s office, books can bring magical moments into everyday life. Early exposure to reading helps build brain pathways that prepare children for academic success and a lifetime of learning.

Join the Movement
At the Petersburg Public Library, we’re thrilled to support this incredible initiative. We invite you to enroll your child, visit our children’s section full of fantastic books, and begin creating lasting memories. Let’s give every child the chance to explore new worlds and build a strong foundation for their future.

Learn more and enroll today by visiting imaginationlibraryrva.org.

Together, we can spark a lifelong love of reading in Central Virginia’s youngest learners.

December 4, 2024

Healthy Living Spotlight: Understanding Diabetes with Shelisha Hill, RDN

In our recent interview, Lenice Sudds, Healthy Living and Learning Coordinator, sat down with Shelisha Hill, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of Diabetes Differently, LLC. Together, they delved into the essentials of diabetes, its prevention, and management.

Shelisha Hill, who specializes in diabetes education, serves as the Director of Nutrition & Wellness and Diabetes Prevention Program Coordinator at the Crater District Area Agency on Aging. Through her work and her business, Diabetes Differently, LLC, she helps individuals learn how to view and manage diabetes in a more effective and personalized way.

During the conversation, Shelisha emphasized the importance of early detection, explaining how lifestyle changes can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes for those diagnosed with prediabetes. Simple steps like increasing physical activity, eating balanced meals, and managing stress can significantly improve outcomes.

Shelisha also shared insights about Body Mass Index (BMI), blood sugar levels, and how to recognize symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Stress and poor sleep, often overlooked, can also impact blood sugar levels and overall health.

Another key takeaway from the discussion was the role of support systems. Shelisha explained how friends, family, and even co-workers can provide encouragement and accountability, helping individuals with diabetes adopt healthier habits. By joining loved ones in making better food choices or participating in physical activities, a strong support system can make managing diabetes less daunting.

Finally, Shelisha highlighted the power of small, actionable steps. “Focus on one goal at a time,” she said, encouraging the use of SMART goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. She reminded listeners to be kind to themselves and adjust their goals as needed to achieve sustainable changes.

For more insights and resources, visit Shelisha Hill’s website at DiabetesDifferently.com.

About Lenice Sudds
Lenice Sudds, BHS, LPN, QMHP-A, is the Program Coordinator at the Healthy Living and Learning Center, Petersburg Public Library. She is dedicated to promoting health and wellness in the community through programs and resources.

Contact: Lenice Sudds, BHS, LPN, QMHP-A
Program Coordinator
Healthy Living and Learning Center
Petersburg Public Library
201 W. Washington Street, Petersburg, VA 23804
📞 (804) 733-2387 ext. 6302
📧 lsudds@ppls.org

December 4, 2023

Show up and Get Fit for Free!

Stay Active at the Petersburg Public Library and Join Our Free Fitness Classes!

Staying active is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and the Petersburg Public Library is here to help you achieve your fitness goals! We’re excited to offer a variety of free fitness classes each week, right here at the library. Whether you’re looking to enhance your flexibility, build strength, or simply stay active, we have something for everyone.

Weekly Fitness Schedule:

Yoga with Belinda Todd
- Every Tuesday at 4 PM
- Every Thursday at 4 PM
- Yoga is a fantastic way to improve flexibility, balance, and mindfulness. Join Belinda Todd for a relaxing and rejuvenating session designed for all levels.
Toning with Toya
- Every Wednesday at 6 PM
- Strengthen your body with Toya’s fun and engaging toning classes. Perfect for those looking to build muscle and increase endurance.
Chair Fitness with Tiffany
- Every Thursday at 12 PM
- Looking for a low-impact workout? Chair Fitness with Tiffany is a great way to stay active, especially for those with mobility challenges. This class focuses on flexibility and strength, all while staying seated.

Why Join?

Our fitness classes are not just about working out; they are about building a community. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people, stay motivated, and most importantly, have fun! Plus, with the guidance of our experienced instructors, you can be sure that you’re exercising safely and effectively.

All Classes are FREE!

Thanks to our partnership with Sports Backers’ Fitness Warriors program and the Healthy Living Learning Center, all these classes are completely free of charge. There’s no better time to start or continue your fitness journey.

See you Soon!

No registration is needed. Just come as you are and get ready to move! Classes are held at the Petersburg Public Library, located at 201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA in our Healthy Living and Learning Center on the Second Floor.