Library promotes reading, music, fun

By KATHLEEN STARLING

Cove Leader-Press

Copperas Cove Public Library’s Summer Reading Program hit some wacky notes on Thursday when Joe McDermott, one of the nation’s top children’s music recording artists, came to share some music and fun. In ones and twos, and a couple large groups, children were led into the conference room. Moms and dads sat their kids on the floor and took a seat in the back. It was obvious the kids were a little confused and anxious. Then a bouncy-haired man with a guitar walked in. A room full of teeny-tiny, expectant eyes were glued to McDermott as he “realized” touching the amplifier plug to things like his head, his nose and even one little girl would make a surprising silly noise. The antics caused an eruption of belly laughs and squeals. McDermott started his show with “Way Out West,” which had the kids galloping, yee-hawing, and waving their imaginary cowboy hats in the air. Once finished, McDermott realized that he was unfamiliar with Cove’s ordinances concerning music, and asked the kids to make a mock call to Mayor Hull and verify that rock and roll, scary songs, and stinky music were allowed within city limits. With a clear go-ahead from the kids he continued with songs like “Flying Saucer,” and “What’s Not to Love About a Skunk” and over half a dozen other songs from his latest album, “Above the Crowd.” McDermott had the kids up and down, riding porcupines, on a roller coaster and jamming on air guitars giggling, laughing, and smiling ear-to-ear the whole time. For more information about the Copperas Cove Public Library’s Summer Reading Program, visit the library, 501 S. Main St.