MAGNOLIA SPRINGS, Ala. — On the heels of its second anniversary, Magnolia Springs Library has added yet another opportunity for patrons.

Thanks to the “Rod, Reel and Read” program, residents with a Magnolia Springs Library card can now check out fishing poles. Thanks to a donation of equipment, the library now boasts two children’s poles and one for adults.

According to Librarian Alida Given, patrons can check out the poles for two weeks, with the understanding that they would be returned in the same condition.

The fishing-pole library is currently available. In addition, the library continues to seek donations of gently-used fishing poles to expand the venture.

The program was developed as a result of Given’s travels.

“When visiting a public library in Bay St. Louis, I was intrigued by the offering of such a program and immediately thought of its appeal for our patrons,” she said. “Living near so many wonderful waterways the library now has fishing rods to check out. What better opportunity than to be outside fishing and having a good book at one’s side?”

Another source of inspiration was the Chicago Public Library System, which also lends fishing poles.

“The goal of this fishing initiative is to provide sustainable, long-term resources and programs that promote life long learning,” Chicago Library System officials said.

For more information, call the Magnolia Springs Library at 965-2035, drop by the library at 12440 Magnolia Ave., Suite 600, Magnolia Springs or visit www.magnoliaspringslibrary.org.