A tortoise from Russia, lizard from Madagascar, golden panda from South America – all these exotic animals entertained kids gathered at city hall Saturday.

Monday, April 15, 2002

A tortoise from Russia, lizard from Madagascar, golden panda from South America – all these exotic animals entertained kids gathered at city hall Saturday.

Brent &uot;the Zoo Man&uot; Mielke from Prairie Zoo in Adrian visited Albert Lea as a kickoff event for National Library Reading Week sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

About 100 kids and parents listened to Mielke speak of animals he brought, and touched a pigeon, kissed a golden panda, and even wrapped a snake around their necks.

During the week, the Albert Lea Library will host events such as story time at 10 a.m. Tuesday, and Library After-School Fun where children can participate in craft classes and games.