Remember the Eaton’s Christmas catalogue (last distributed in 1975) and the Sears Wish Book (1933-2017)?
These were well-thumbed staples in our home growing up and my brother and I vied for the section we each wanted to memorize. We knew exactly which item we hoped to find under the Christmas tree — sometimes we got it and sometimes we didn’t.
My mother, however, was adept at re-creating some of those products, usually of better quality and more detail than those for sale on mail-order pages. I especially recall the wondrous miniature dollhouse she made for me when I was six and the beautiful red velvet dress she made me when I was eight.
To craft some of your own gifts for those on your Christmas list, check out the classes and DIY events we’re offering in the next several weeks.
Youngsters today may not know the thrill of the arrival of those catalogues, but the ease and familiarity they have with internet shopping may make it hard to hide gift-buying from them. Parents who need a quiet place to browse Amazon or other online sellers will find all the privacy they need in the comfortable corners of our library.
Come in today to see what else we can offer you.
Children:
Little ones are sponges who soak up vast amounts of information before they ever go to school.
Take advantage of that wide-eyed wonder by introducing them (0-5 yrs) to literature at Read and Rhyme, on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Friday mornings at 10:30.
Fun awaits you every Tuesday and Thursday at 4 p.m. at Something Cool After School.
Kids aged 6 and up will enjoy snapping together littleBits to build inventions that really work on Thursday, Nov. 16.
On Tuesday, Nov. 21, we’ll be crafting beautiful luminous lanterns. Then on Thursday, Nov. 23, you’ll figure out how to animate your ideas through captivating stop-motion storytelling. Join us soon!
If your child needs extra help with school subjects, consider our free, individualized tutoring for students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 on Mondays, 4-6 p.m., or Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4-7 p.m. Call for an appointment.
Teens and ’Tweens:
Need a Christmas gift for someone special? Plan ahead by showing up to make a colourful yarn painting on Wednesday, Nov. 22, at 4:30 p.m. Ages 10+.
Adults:
Start your holiday decorating with a natural ornament you can hang on your tree or in a doorway. Crystal’s Crafters will be creating mini pinecone topiaries on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Please pre-register as spaces are limited.
What better way to practice Yoga Nidra than in the relaxing comfort of home via Zoom? To join us on Thursday, Nov. 16, at 8 p.m., call the library for the link.
Unwind with other creatives for Masterpieces and Mocktails on Friday, Nov. 17, at 6:30 p.m. We’ll be serving snacks and a special mocktail at this Paint Night Fundraiser, and you’ll come away with a stunning picture of the northern lights. Please pre-register at a cost of $25 per person.
Are you interested in learning Spanish, or simply maintaining your language skills?
Join us for Spanish Conversation Cafe on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 11 a.m. You’ll interact with others to practice speaking and understanding in a fun, supportive environment.
If you’re a senior, you could benefit from an hour of gentle yoga for better flexibility, balance, and stress reduction. We will meet at the Stettler Library on Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 10:30 a.m. Handibus transportation is free for this program.
This month’s Reader’s Circle Book Club selection is The Madness of Crowds, by Louise Perry. Pick up a copy to read the book and then join the discussion on Wednesday, Nov. 29 at 6:30 p.m.
Adults who enjoy games, crafts, and the occasional movie with others will want to attend Afternoon Friends on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. This week we’ll be playing Bingo and other games. Everyone welcome.
Need a safe place to talk about your experiences when someone close to you has a drinking problem? Meet with Al-Anon on Tuesdays at 6:30 for encouragement and support.
Minds in Motion is a program of the Alzheimer Society that promotes cognitive stimulation and emotional well-being for those affected by memory loss. We meet on Thursdays at 1 p.m. for a little light exercise followed by games and socialization with others on the same journey.
All Ages:
Join the fun at the Super Smash Bros. Tournament on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. We can provide controllers or you can bring your own. And don’t forget, Monday night online gaming is at 8 p.m. Call the library for further details.
Our employment resource person has more than 30 years of experience to help you make your resume stand out to prospective employers. Call for a Thursday afternoon appointment.
Would you like help navigating your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic device? We’re here for you. Or perhaps you’d like to digitize your outdated technology like videotapes or photographic slides? We’ll show you how to use our equipment to accomplish the task.
Treat your family to a swim at the pool or a bracing session in the gym by borrowing one of our daily or weekly Family Fitness passes. Call to reserve one today.
“Getting information off the Internet is like taking a drink from a fire hydrant. ~Mitch Kapor
For more information or to register for any of the above programs, call the library at 403-742-2292.
