Heard the One About the Marshmallows?

If you have small children, chances are they've been telling you the story of "Ooey Gooey Marshmallows" over the last few days.

This week it'll be "Plumply Dumply Pumpkins."

That's because they're the "Story Time" stories that youngsters here are hearing on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at the Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library.

"They like it," said Children' Librarian Kristi Lesmann. "They give you hugs and say, 'Thank You.'"

Story Time on Tuesday's and Wednesday's at 10 am is one of the most popular events at the downtown library each week. Last week, more than 75 crowded in to hear about the marshmallows on Tuesday and then another 60 came on Wednesday, though Kristi says the average is more like 50 each day. It is open to all children from birth through pre-school, and local day care businesses are welcome to send their children.

"Parents stay with their children," she said. "It gives them a chance to spend some fun time with their children as they learn to socialize with other kids. Everybody seems to enjoy it."

Library staff usually tell the stories, though sometimes they'll have a guest storyteller when someone volunteers, which is always fun, she said.

Those who would like to volunteer for a Story Time can get on the list by contacting Library Director Betty Coats at 553-1529.

Here's a look at what's coming up through the end of the year:

November

16 & 17 - Plumply dumply pumpkins

23 & 24 - Thanky wanky thanksgiving

30- Nighty whitey moon

December

1 - Nighty whitey moon

7 & 8 - Snowmen/counting

14 & 15 - Snow globes

21 & 22 - Jingle bells

28 & 29 - Birds of a feather