Library fills void by using local skills

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

Playing a pivotal role within the community, the Strathmore Municipal Library is utilizing local talent to offer a highly anticipated program while filling a need within the town and proving once more that the organization is not just about literature.
Starting next month, residents will have yet another resource to take advantage of when the library launches their Stitchin’ Time sewing classes for beginners. While the library staff had been working on getting the program off the ground, interest and demand continued to steadily grow.
“We have a great staff at the library and they’re all filled with so many great talents and hobbies, so we just draw on those talents and those skills that our staff have to create new programs,” said Carmen Erison, assistant director of library services at the Strathmore Municipal Library.
“We’re very fortunate that we have a seamstress on staff. So we got this program together to help amateur sewers to learn some of those little tips and tricks that you just don’t quite know.”
Ilke Schwartz, who is known for her sewing skills and has been approached by community members on numerous occasions, will be spearheading the program that will run every third Saturday of the month – with the exception of November.
The program will require participants to have their own sewing machine and bring their preferred projects. While the aim of the program is focused on helping residents tackle ordinary scenarios, such as replacing a broken zipper or hemming a pair of jeans, the scope of the project is broad.
While Stitchin’ Time is just one more program to add to the library’s already vast list of resources offered, it further solidifies their impact on the community – a hub that branches out to meet the needs of Strathmore.
“We really thrive to just help the community out, and sometimes we see a need for things that are different in the community and we go for it,” said Carmen Erison, assistant director to library services.
“Libraries aren’t just about books anymore. Libraries are about being a community centre where people come to learn. They’re not just coming to a library to learn about books, they are coming to the library to learn about everything. Learn about life; learn new skills; whatever they can learn. If we can provide a space for that in the community, then that’s a wonderful thing.”
The library is also bringing back Library Snapshot Day on Oct. 15 that is held during Canadian Library Month each year. Although providing libraries the platform to collect data to demonstrate the importance that libraries play within their community, it is also a chance for the community to gather at the library and challenge each other in some fun games.
Stitchin’ Time, which is a free program, begins on Oct. 17 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more information on the library’s current and upcoming new programs visit www.strathmorelibrary.ca.