Book folding workshop raises funds

Melissa Strle
Times Reporter

 

The Strathmore Municipal Library held its first book folding fundraiser on Nov. 9.
Book folding is a unique, artistic way to turn books into a work of art.
Alexis McKenzie, acting director of library services said the fundraiser was a great way to “upcycle books that perhaps you were never going to read, or are in not good enough condition to enjoy as they are.”
The workshop featured a book that had its pages adapted to create a heart picture resembling 3D art.
“All you need is a book and a spoon and the spoon helps you with the folding,” said McKenzie. “You fold the pages in such a way that creates a picture.”
McKenzie said she hadn’t heard of this art form before she started working at the Strathmore Library.
“It was kind of new to me, but we’ve had some examples in our library for a while,” she said.
Marlene Risdon, fundraising chair for the library, organized the event and had a lady come from Calgary to teach at the fundraiser. Approximately 17 people attended the two different sessions on Nov. 9.
McKenzie said events such as this one “bring people from the community together,” where they are provided with a forum to get creative and artistic.
“It’s always nice to have something to do locally,” said McKenzie. “It kind of follows on the footsteps of the paint nights that we’ve been doing. I think it’s so important to have these kinds of outings locally.”
McKenzie said that the night saw a really good turnout.
“The registrations were slow but steady, and people were really wonderful about spreading the word and inviting their friends so I’d say it was very successful,” she said.
Carmen Erison, assistant director of library services, also agreed with the success of the evening.
“It was actually a very successful night,” she said. “A lot of people were really excited and excited to see what we’re going to do next.”
Erison said she would love to hold the event again in the spring.
“We are kind of seeing some very unique opportunities for fundraising right now with paint nights and creative type of events,” she said.
Erison added that a lady came into the library this week to ask about providing a parchment craft session.
“So what’s really kind of fantastic is that people are really drawing on this and getting excited and that’s great, so we’re going to keep on going,” she said.
Erison’s goal is to have at least one fundraiser a month.
“I know we’re working on possible wreath-making sessions for December, but will have to confirm with Marlene (Risdon),” she said.