By Heidi Marttila-Losure, Dakotafire Media Reporting by Britton Journal, Clark County Courier, and Faulk County Record, Char Telkamp, Groton Daily Independent
• At a time when the news could be pretty bad coming from rural libraries in the James River Valley, many area communities report that their libraries are holding their own or even thriving:
• · The library in Britton, which moved to fine new quarters in 2002, is a social gathering spot for the community. "There is always a jigsaw puzzle in the works and coffee available," said Britton Public Library head librarian Peggy Satrang. "Some people come in two or three times a week to put pieces in the puzzle, and others come in just to have a cup of coffee and visit a little bit.  It really is a community place. It's busy, but it's a good place to be."

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• Miriam Jolaine Grenz was born on November 12th to Daniel and Karla Grenz in China.  She weighed 4 pounds, 6 ounces and was 20 inches long.  She joins her sister, Moriah, age 2.
• Grandparents are Tim and Janet Goddu of Los Angeles, CA and Dale and Joyce of Groton, SD.  Great-Grandparents are George Goddu of Westminster, CO and Elmer and Ruby Ketterling of Leola, SD. 
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