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Christmas

"A Christmas Carol" Read-Aloud

Photograph of book open on a table with a Christmas mug and Christmas tree in the background.

Program participants read the Dickens masterpiece aloud from start to finish in a public reading using the original text of the 1843 novella. All are invited and encouraged to attend — individuals, families, book clubs and groups — and participate by reading a portion of the book.

All reading levels are welcomed and festive attire is encouraged. Cookies, hot cocoa and spiced apple cider are served as participants gather to read together.

Holiday Gift Bag Decorating

wrapped holiday gifts

For the holidays in 2019, Westmont Public Library staff taught patrons several techniques to decorate gift bags. Participants got to decorate and take home three bags. All supplies were provided.

This could also be offered as a virtual program with participants picking up a materials packet in advance.

Elf on the Bookshelf

You've heard of Elf on the Shelf. I've found that the elf is the best low-cost passive program to engage patrons through pandemic times and advocate for our library. My library elf, Tinsel, promotes programming, library services and reading.

The inspiration came from how teachers utilize their elf for classroom management around the hyperactive holiday season. Libraries can use an elf to promote library events and excite patrons with the silly hijinks that the elves get into.

Nailed It / Failed It: Holiday Snacks Edition

Candy on a stick with marshmallows to look like a face.

This program was inspired by Netflix show "Nailed It!", which features amateur bakers trying to bake crazy cakes and treats.

Our program encouraged teen and tween participants to create decorative, fun snacks. Since the program was being held in December, we challenged them to make holiday-themed marshmallow pops: a reindeer, a Santa and a snowman.

The Giving Tree

tree with holiday decorations

The Giving Tree is an annual event that begins right after Veteran’s Day and runs through mid-December. We set up an artificial pine tree that collects donations of new children’s hats, gloves, scarves and socks (and sometimes new picture books) for distribution within our community before the December holidays.

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