Members of the Mother Lode Mineral Society took time from their busy schedule to help educate youngsters at Oakdale Library on Thursday, Jan. 3. A large group of kids from throughout the area attended the educational half hour program.

The Mother Lode Mineral Society members explained the process of fossilization, displayed bone fragments, talked about the meaning of extinction and more to those on hand. They showed kids replicas of a Megalodon shark tooth and mastodon bones along with other animal bones, fossils and teeth. This included cows, whales, great white sharks and more.

The group also touched on topics including what to look for when exploring for bones and fossils. The Mother Lode Mineral Society will also be featured at The Turlock Rock and Gem Show on March 9 and 10 at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds in Turlock. This event will feature a replica eight feet tall and 16 feet long baby T-Rex. Also on tap will be fossil exhibits, gold panning, crafts, treasure hunts and more. For more information, log onto www.turlockgemshow.com.

More special events are planned for kids this month at the library.

Kids ages 5-8, can enjoy a book club for kids where they will listen to a story, discuss and share, and do a related activity based on the book. The “Book Worms Book Club” will meet monthly, no sign-ups required. This month the club will meet on Thursday, Jan. 17 at 3 p.m., and will be making shrinky dinks.

The “Crafteen Book Club” for teens, ages 13-18, will continue on Tuesday, Jan. 2, at 3 p.m. This month attendees will share thoughts on their favorite books while they make unique and colorful removable window clings.

Also, the “Little Scientists” S.T.E.A.M. Program for ages from kindergarten to eight years old, will be on Wednesday, Jan. 23, at 3:30 p.m. Listen to a book, then explore the world of astronomy by making a “nebula in a jar” and gazing at the constellations. Sign-ups are required in advance; call the Oakdale Library at 209-847-4204 for more information.