Strathmore Municipal Library prepares for Christmas

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

With Christmas fast approaching and in the wake of last year’s overwhelming success, the Strathmore Municipal Library is gearing up for another week of exciting programs that cater to the town’s youngest residents and seek to bring back some fan favourites.
The introduction of some new initiatives last year proved popular among many residents, resulting in a large turnout that sometimes left staff scrambling. This year, however, the staff is expecting to expand the experience in a more structured way.
“It’s going to be bright and happy and exciting and we’re going to pack the library tight,” said Carmen Erison, the assistant to the director of library services.
“Bigger and better than last year, more exciting, but more controlled. We wanted to do this because we know that the kids are off school between Christmas and New Year, and the library is typically closed between that time. This is our last blowout before the end of the year.”
Back by popular demand, the library will be featuring Ginger All the Way, which made its debut last year. As 50 participants showed up last year, the program will run in three separate sessions this year, each accommodating 15 participants. While the program was free last year, it left a sizable hole in the budget that now means participants will pay a $5 fee. However, the library provides all supplies, including the gingerbread train, icing and the candy.
“Last year was our first time running this program,” said Erison. “We couldn’t have anticipated that big of a response, so this year we’re looking to do it a little bit more smarter and a little bit more organized. We think it’s going to be a spectacular event.”
The library is also bringing back the Holiday Makeshop program, which is based on Makerspaces. Children will be provided with numerous crafts and create Christmas gifts or items. This program is free to attend and requires no registration.
Then on Dec. 23, two family Christmas films will be showcased during Merry and Bright Movies. The event will offer complimentary hot chocolate and popcorn and is free for all ages. For more details and movie titles visit www.strathmorelibrary.ca or visit the Strathmore Municipal Library Facebook page.
The library asks that children under the age of six be accompanied by an adult. Registration for Ginger all the Way will run from Dec. 1-15 with 45 spots available. The event on Dec. 21 has sessions scheduled from 11 a.m. until noon, 1 p.m. until 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. Holiday Makeshop will take place on Dec. 22 from 1-3, no registration necessary and free to attend. On Dec. 23, from 10:30 a.m. to noon the Merry and Bright Movies event will feature a family movie rated G, and in the afternoon from 1 p.m until 2:30 p.m. offer a movie rated PG.
The library will be closed for Christmas break from Dec. 24 until Jan. 4.