Teen Advisory Board

Teen Advisory Board

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 4:30 pm, join TAB to discuss ideas for improving library services for teens in the community. Ages 12-18 (still in high school) can apply. To be a member, you must commit to 5 hours of library volunteering (outside of meetings) per year and attend 1 TAB meeting per month or discuss other options with the program director.

Teens meet up to talk about ideas for programs and how to improve library services for teens in our community. TAB members will lead programs and volunteer at the library.

Phone

423-745-7782

E.G. Fisher Library

1289 Ingleside Avenue Athens, Tn 37303

InterLibrary Loan

Access a World of Resources

Discover the InterLibrary Loan Service

Unlock a vast network of books, movies, and more beyond our collection, all at no cost to you.

What is the InterLibrary Loan Service?

Our InterLibrary Loan Service lets you borrow materials not available in our collection from libraries nationwide, expanding your access to resources for research, entertainment, and personal growth. Request items by author, title, or subject to support your educational journey.

The InterLibrary Loan Service allows patrons to access a wider range of materials at no extra cost. It’s perfect for finding specific items not available locally, with a simple borrowing process. Note: materials published in the last six months are ineligible, and there’s a limit of five loans at a time.

Requesting Items Made Easy

How to Use the InterLibrary Loan Service

1

Step 1: Search Our Catalog

Begin by searching our library’s catalog to ensure the item is not available locally.

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Step 2: Submit a Request

Use the Interlibrary Loan Request Form to submit your request, specifying the author, title, or subject.

3

Step 3: Await Confirmation

Once your request is processed, you’ll receive an update on the status and estimated arrival time.

Loan Limitations

Our InterLibrary Loan Service allows patrons to borrow up to five items at a time. Please note that newly published or released materials, specifically those within the last six months, are not eligible for borrowing through this service.

Material Availability

While we strive to fulfill all requests, availability is subject to the lending library’s policies. Books, movies, and other materials not in our collection can be requested, but certain restrictions may apply based on the item’s publication date and location.

Delivery Times

Items located within Tennessee typically arrive within one to three weeks.  We appreciate your patience as we coordinate with partner libraries to meet your needs.

Request Form Instructions

To request an item through our Interlibrary Loan Service, please complete the Interlibrary Loan Request Form. Ensure you provide accurate details, including the author’s name, title, and any special notes to help distinguish what you are looking for. Double-check your contact information to receive updates on your request status. Submit the form online or at the library’s front desk for processing.

Expand Your Reading Horizons Today!

TITLE VI

Anti-Discrimination Policy – Title VI

 

The Civil Rights Act of 1964

Title VI ensures your right to receive equal treatment and service opportunities regardless of your race, color, national origin, or limited English proficiency in any program or activity that receives Federal funds or other Federal financial assistance. It is the policy of E.G. Fisher Public Library to treat all patrons fairly and without discrimination. If you feel you have been discriminated against or treated unfairly, please fill out the Title VI Complaint Form that will go directly to the library’s Title VI  coordinator.

Your complaint will be investigated by the Title VI Coordinator. If your complaint is against the Title VI Coordinator, send your complaint to the Library Director. Complaints may be taken to the Mcminn County Library Board. The investigation may include speaking to you directly and contacting witnesses you list in the complaint. Findings will be reported to you within 30 days of receipt of your complaint.

Any person who believes that discrimination has occurred in violation of Title VI may be filed with the state or federal agency involved. Complaints may also be filed with the written complaint with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission or the United States Department of Justice. For more information, please contact the Tennessee Human Rights Commission or visit https://sos.tn.gov/TitleVI.

Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act.

Title VI Coordinator  July 2017 – June 2020: Katie Brady

Title VI Coordinator FY July 2020- June 2021: Peyton Eastman Library Director

Title VI Coordinator FY July 2021- June 2022: Peyton Eastman Library Director

Title VI Coordinator FY July 2022- November 2022:  Peyton Eastman Library Director

Title VI Coordinator FY November 2022 – June 2023: Meleena Livesay Program Director meleenalivesay@fisherlibrary.org

Title VI Coordinator FY July 2023 – June 2024: Meleena Livesay Program Director meleenalivesay@fisherlibrary.org

Title VI Coordinator FY July 2024 – April 2025: Meleena Livesay Program Director meleenalivesay@fisherlibrary.org

Title VI Coordinator FY May 2025 – June 2026: Rebeckah Coleman Director rcoleman@fisherlibrary.org

Title VI Coordinator FY July 2025 – June 2026: Rebeckah Coleman Director rcoleman@fisherlibrary.org

 

 

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer

Become a volunteer or help out with an event

Join us in shaping our community’s future! Volunteer at our library and contribute your time and talents to support our programs, assist patrons, and enrich the library experience for all. No matter your interests or schedule, there’s a place for you here. Sign up today and be a part of something meaningful!

How to Apply:

Step 1

Complete our convenient online volunteer application form.

Step 2

Await our prompt response. We’ll reach out to you promptly to coordinate your volunteer hours.

Step 3

Get ready to make a difference! Arrive for your scheduled hours, check in at the front desk, and receive your instructions for the day. We’re excited to have you on board!

Volunteer Requirements:

At our library, we welcome volunteers who are committed to our mission and community. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Age: Must meet our minimum age requirement – 12+.
  • Commitment: Reliable volunteers ensure consistency and quality.
  • Skills: Experience is helpful but not required; we offer training.
  • Availability: Flexibility and communication are key.

*Court Mandate Hours – We only accept court-mandated juvenile volunteers for non-drug or non-violent offenses. *

Join us in making a difference! Explore volunteer opportunities today.

Join our mission. Volunteer, Donate, Advocate. Get Started Today.

Call:

(423) 745-7782

Programs

Our Programs

Programs at EGFPL

Discover the excitement of learning, creativity, and community with our free library programs! Whether you’re exploring new hobbies, diving into fun activities, or connecting with others, we have something for everyone. Join us and be a part of our vibrant library community—your next adventure awaits!

Calendar

 

Calendar

 

Programs & Events

Programs & Events

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Registration: Some programs require registration. To register click the button, call us at 423-745-7782, or kindly see us at the front desk.

Local Authors: Interested in hosting a Table Meet & Greet. It’s a casual opportunity to connect with readers, showcase your work, and share your story.

Program Proposal Form: Want to recommend or lead a program?  Click the button,  to fill out the program proposal form.

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Programs for Children

Baby Storytime

Baby Storytime is for families with babies ages 0 to 2 and includes stories, songs, baby sign language, and more. Storytime introduces young children to the library through books, rhymes, and playtime.

The Table Top Guild: Dungeons and Dragons

D&D at the library is a tabletop role-playing game where you create characters and embark on adventures. Character sheets and dice are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Lego Club

Lego Club invites you to build and create with Legos in the children’s space. After you’re done, you can showcase your creation in our Lego display case. This is a passive program.

Minecraft Club

Minecraft Club is where players can connect, build, and explore together in a family-friendly space. Children must bring their own devices. 

Pre-K Storytime

Preschool Storytime engages children ages 3 to 5 in books, interactive stories, songs, and crafts each week. This program helps children build school skills like letter recognition, taking turns, listening, fine motor skills, and more.

Pokemon Club

The Pokémon Club is for trainers under 12 to enjoy games, trading cards, and exciting activities. Whether you’re new or experienced, join in the fun and adventure!

The Tutoring Lab

Free drop-in tutoring. Get help with test prep, math, science, grammar, and more in a small group setting. Limited spots. First Come first serve.

Chess Club

The chess club offers guidance for beginners and open play for experienced players, welcoming all skill levels and ages. Extra chess boards are appreciated.

Inside Scavenger Hunt

Solve this month’s riddle by exploring the library for a chance to win a prize. This is a passive program.

Little Bites: Snack Workshop**

Join us monthly for a hands-on snack-making experience where kids and their grown-ups cook, learn, and explore new flavors together. **Registration required! Register using the registration link above.

Meals for Kids and Teens

Children and teens ages 18 and under can eat a free meal every Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm Saturday from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.

During Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter Break meal time schedule changes.

 

Pulse Kids!

Exploring Human Health & Science for Kids

Pulse introduces elementary and middle school students to fundamental concepts in health and science through creative and engaging hands-on activities.

Toddler Storytime

Toddler Storytime motivates toddlers ages 3 to 5 to get the wiggles out with music, interactive stories, bubbles, and more each week! Toddlers will be introduced to books, songs, counting practice, interactive stories, parachute play, and more.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program encourages families to read 1,000 books with their children before they start school. Track your progress and enjoy the journey of early literacy together.

Programs for Teens

Chess Club

The chess club offers guidance for beginners and open play for experienced players, welcoming all skill levels and ages. Extra chess boards are appreciated.

The Table Top Guild: Dungeons and Dragons

D&D at the library is a tabletop role-playing game where you create characters and embark on adventures. Character sheets and dice are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Teen Advisory Board

TAB is a group for teens aged 12-18 that discusses ideas for improving library services. Members must commit to 10 hours of volunteering per year and attend at least one meeting per month. They also host events for children, organize parties and games, create book displays, participate in outreach events, and fundraise.

Teen Connect

Unwind, hang out, and connect with friends at this drop-in program just for teens! Play board games, jump on the Nintendo Switch or Wii, grab a snack from the cart, craft & color, watch a movie, or bring your own device for Minecraft. 

Meals for Kids and Teens

Children and teens ages 18 and under can eat a free meal every Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm Saturday from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.

During Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter Break meal time schedule changes.

 

Teen Anime Club

Our Teen Anime Club offers a chance to watch popular anime, discuss episodes with fellow fans, and participate in a monthly craft related to the shows.

The Tutoring Lab

Free drop-in tutoring. Get help with test prep, math, science, grammar, and more in a small group setting. Limited spots. First Come first serve.

Programs for Adults

Adult Craft Time**

Adult Craft Time is a creative session where you can explore various crafts and connect with others.

**Registration required! Register using the registration link above.

Chess Club

The chess club offers guidance for beginners and open play for experienced players, welcoming all skill levels and ages. Extra chess boards are appreciated.

My Weekend is All Booked: Adult Book Club

My Weekend is All Booked is an adult book club that meets monthly to discuss a different book. Community and library staff lead the discussions, and multiple copies of the selected book are available for checkout before the meeting.

Technology Class for Beginners**

Our free monthly Technology Class covers a new digital topic each month to help you master the digital world.

**Registration required! Register using the registration link above.

The Tutoring Lab

Free drop-in tutoring. Get help with test prep, math, science, grammar, and more in a small group setting. Limited spots. First Come first serve.

Adult Education Workshop**

The Adult Education Workshop at the library offers opportunities to enhance your skills and learn something knew.

**Registration required! Register using the registration link above.

Tabletop Guild Series

Tabletop Guild Series is a library-led series of game-based programs that bring people together through strategy and storytelling, featuring Dungeons & Dragons for all ages and Magic: The Gathering for adults.

Noon Book Club

Join us for our monthly book club, a collaborative program between the library and the Friends of the Library (FOL). Enjoy a lively discussion led by a guest facilitator, along with a light lunch.

Yarnaholics

Yarnaholics is a group for crocheting and knitting with fellow enthusiasts. Bring your own projects, or if you’re new, come learn and practice with provided beginner materials.

Notices & F.A.Q.s

Accessibility Statement

If you or your child may need additional assistance or accommodations to participate in a library program due to a disability, anxiety, sensory needs, or other circumstances, please contact programming@fisherlibrary.org prior to the program. Please provide as much notice as possible, preferably at least 48 hours in advance. We will do our best to help make participation accessible and comfortable for everyone.

Reservation Notice

Some of our library programs require reservations due to limited space. To reserve your spot, please visit our front desk or give us a call. Reservations are accepted until 24 hours before the program start time on business days.

Please note that if you reserve a spot but do not attend or cancel without notifying us on three separate occasions, you may be restricted from participating in future library programs for a designated period.

To register call 423-745-7782 or see the front desk.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Non-Descrimination Notice

Our library is committed to ensuring that all services and programs are accessible and equitable to everyone. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. For more information, or to request accommodations, please contact us.

Is there a cost to participate in library programs?

All library programs are free of charge unless otherwise noted.

Can I drop my kids off for programs?

For teen programs, yes, you can drop your children off. However, please ensure they are aware of and follow any specific program guidelines. For other age groups, we ask that a caregiver remain with the child during the program.

Photography Notice

Please be aware that our library programs are open to the public, and photos may be taken during these events. These images may be used to promote future programs and other library activities through our social media channels, in-library displays, press releases, or data reports for city/county board meetings.

If you have concerns about having your photo posted, or if you are attending with a child in foster care or under similar protection, please notify our front desk or the event photographer upon arrival. Your privacy and the privacy of those you are with are important to us.

Program's Code of Conduct
Is it required to have a library card to attend a program?

No, a library card is not required to attend programs. However, we invite you to get a library cards with us!

What age groups are the programs suitable for?

Program descriptions include age recommendations, which can be found in the category, title, or description of each event. For more details, click on the event in the calendar or on the home page’s program slider. Children’s programs are typically divided into ages 0-5 and 6-11. Teen programs are for ages 12-18 (still in high school), and adult programs are for ages 18 and up (out of high school). If your child is between these age ranges (e.g., 5/6 or 6/11), please use your discretion to choose the most suitable program. During school breaks, we offer more family-friendly programs. If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call.

Where can I find previous recorded programs?

For previous recorded programs, check out the following playlist: Interviews and Lectures Playlist