The Marshall County Public Library is gearing up for its first-ever reoccurring cycling program this month after recently being awarded the Paula Nye Memorial Bicyclist and Pedestrian Education Grant.
The grant, funded by donations made to Kentucky’s “Share the Road” specialty plate program administered by the Kentucky Bicycle and Bikeway Commission, will be used to purchase cycling items for circulation at all three branches of the library and to host programs for bike education and safety.
The first program will be held at the paved trails in Calvert City from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on March 26.
“This was my first grant proposal and I was elated to have been chosen as a recipient of this grant,” said Young Adult Librarian Olivia Shelton. “Coasting through Calvert is an idea I came up with based on my love for biking and the awesome paved trails offered throughout Calvert City.”
With the grant money, Shelton said she thought it best to start an annual biking program, and plans to purchase bike locks, pumps, tools, safety/repair books, available for checkout at all three library branches.
“Once a group is established, the program will likely expand to other parts of Marshall County and speakers may be invited to talk about different cycling opportunities and bike safety. My family has always biked together and I want other families to be able to share similar memories together.”
While helmets will be required, bikes/helmets will not be provided, so participants are asked to bring their own. The program, which will be held once a month weather-permitting, is for all ages and cycling levels.
“This means no matter how skilled you are at cycling, this should be a fairly easy ride,” Shelton said. “It is on the paved trails of Calvert City and mostly flat ground. There may be a few hills, but nothing too crazy.”
Participants should meet at Calvert City’s library branch parking lot at 10 a.m. on March 26. There will be a small discussion about ride/bike safety before beginning. Participants are not required to ride the entirety of the program. For more information, call the library at (270) 527-9969 or check social media.
