NEWELL—There is always something fun about being in the library. It is a place full of stories and imagination. Throughout this school year, the Newell Public Library is inviting kids to spend time in the library for a little storytelling and a little creativity.
The latest program, Story Crafters, kicked off when children gathered in the library on Friday afternoon, November 6. Sitting together on the floor, the children listened as Holly Ollila, library director, read two autumn-themed books to them—Leaf Fall by Maryann Cocca-Leffler and Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Pak.
The children listened intently to every word the librarian read to them. Following story time, Ollila explained to the kids what activity they would be doing. After giving everyone a large T-shirt to protect their clothing from rogue paint splatter, the kids moved over to the craft tables.
The children used paint and paintbrushes to add colorful fall leaves to an outline of a bare tree, creating their own autumn artwork to take home with them.
Anyone who is interested in participating in the program is invited to come be part of it. Story Crafters takes place on the first and third Fridays of each month throughout the school year. It starts at 2:15 p.m. Although the activities are geared toward elementary-age children, all ages are welcome. Ollila said she would try to make the craft so older or younger kids could also participate.
At the beginning of the program, the stories and activities will revolve around the seasons. “It is twice a month and we’ll do stories and arts and craft projects mostly about the seasons. This time, so today, November will be about fall and December will be about winter,” explained Ollila.
The new library director has just been on the job for around a month. “I am very much enjoying it. I love to serve the community, and I haven’t been doing that for a while, so it’s good to get back,” she shared. “I enjoy reading. I started out in college to be an elementary school teacher, so I learned about how to select books and how to teach reading and things like that. And then I shifted into school counseling and worked here [Newell].”
As Ollila gets settled into her position, she has plans for the direction of the library. “Right now, I am focusing on getting in new inventory. And I guess we’re going to expand into adult programs eventually,” she said.
The Newell Public Library has a large collection of books to explore and a selection of books for sale for 50 cents each.
Young or old, there is something for everyone! Stop by and see for yourself. The library is open Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the first and third Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The library is located at 208 Girard Ave.
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