More than a repository of books, the community library welcomes all with readings, activities, programming that are all made more enjoyable in a face-to-face environment. The past year, library staff, volunteers and patrons were once again able to enjoy all the library has to offer. 

While many offerings have welcomed people to the library, others were better facilitated by distance technology, said head librarian Kate Lucyshyn.

“In the spring, we had a speaker for our Aboriginal Storytelling Month, and that went really well. It was through Zoom, and the schools participated. From them we heard it was an excellent presentation.”

The summer was more “normal” programming, she says, with the TD Summer Reading Club. Throughout the holidays, kids can pick out books, engage in activities, and share in those book based adventures. Lucyshyn said interest was strong and turnout was excellent.  

In the fall, children’s and babies’ story times commenced once again. 

“Baby storytime is on Monday’s in the afternoon, and our preschool story time which includes stories, fun activities and some crafts, is on Tuesdays.”

For adults the Pinterest craft activities will be starting again, and another escape room is in the planning stages.

“Our spring escape room went really well. We had a magical one in the spring and had a really good turnout and feedback for that. So now we are doing a pirate one from Wednesday, December 28 through to Saturday, January 7.”

Escape room fans or newcomers will be met with clues to figure out in order to mastermind your escape. Lucyshyn says participants 12 years of age and under need to be accompanied by an adult to help meet the challenges.  

Other activities that are ongoing are a scrapbooking group, and a seniors’ social hour on Thursday mornings at 10:00 am an informal visit. Another speaker is planned for the 2023 edition of Aboriginal Storytelling Month.

Lucyshyn passed along thanks to the Good Neighbour Store for their donation, and to Hergott Electric for their summer donation. She also thanks the community for their support, and invites community members to be in touch if there’s programming or activities they’d like to see in the upcoming year.