In my family we believe strongly in giving Thanksgiving its due time. One of the ways we try to avoid shortchanging this holiday is by waiting until after Thanksgiving weekend to put up our Christmas tree. While I love Thanksgiving, particularly the great quality time I enjoy with both immediate and extended family, I’ll be honest. When I think about things I’m thankful for during this weekend, the idea that it’s almost time to put on Christmas music and pull out our Christmas decorations is never far from my mind. Here at the library we’ve begun gearing up for the holiday season. I have the pleasure of taking the lead in decorating the interior of the library for the holidays, and raiding the library’s storage closets for trees, ornaments, lights and garland is one of the highlights of my year. A tradition we began last year that we have continued is the creation and display of a book tree a tree made entirely out of library books. Stop by over the next month to enjoy this beautiful celebration of both the holiday and the written word. There are plenty of other fun reasons to stop by the library over the next four weeks:

Holiday Storytime Series

Preschool Storytime (for ages 3-5) meets on Tuesdays from 10:05-10:35 a.m., and are enjoying a special holiday storytime series. Over the next three Tuesdays preschoolers can attend and leave with a homemade holiday ornament. These ornaments make a great addition to your tree, or a meaningful gift for a grandparent or friend.

Teen Holiday Fun

Over the last two weeks teens have enjoyed tackling holiday crafts during Teen Lounge, which meets Mondays Tuesdays and Wednesdays after school at the library. We’ve created a special Thanksgiving bulletin board display for the Teen Area, made no-sew wrist warmers out of t-shirt material (which made great homemade gifts), and have cut out dozens of paper snowflakes for the upcoming Teen Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 16. Teens 6th-12th grade, come to the library after school that Wednesday to enjoy great food, fun games, and a decked-out party area.

DIY Club

On TDec. 1 at 6 p.m., the library’s DIY (Do It Yourself) Club will meet and create lovely holiday cards and gift tags. If you’re looking for a cheap way to add a little something to your Christmas gifts, this club meeting has what you’re looking for. First-time attendees, this low-difficulty craft is the perfect opportunity to try out the club.

Santa’s Workshop

On Dec. 12 from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Santa will be visiting the library. This family-friendly holiday celebration has been a past hit (check out the library’s Facebook page for photos from last year), and we’re looking forward to hosting this event filled with treats, crafts, and of course, Santa Claus. Bring your kids on out to the library and enjoy an entirely free holiday experience!

Holiday Films For Kids

The three Saturdays before Christmas, kids can come to the library from 10:30-12pm to enjoy some great Christmas films:

Dec. 5: Santa Buddies (G)

Dec. 12: Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas (G) & Eloise: Little Miss Christmas (G)

Dec. 19: Arthur Christmas (PG)

For Teens

On Dec. 23 from 3:30-5 p.m. the library will show Elf (PG), starring Will Ferrell and James Caan. A hilarious Christmas comedy that showcases Ferrell’s true comic genius, this is a must-see holiday classic. Teens 6th-12th grade, attend and enjoy this free movie showing.

For Adults

On Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. the library will show the Christmas film The Heart of Christmas. Starring Jeanne Neilson & Christopher Stone and based on actual events, the film tells the heartwarming story of one community rallying behind a young, sick boy to give him one last Christmas. This inspirational film is guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit. Free popcorn and pop will be provided.

Whether you’re looking for holiday books and movies, gift ideas for family & friends, or free activities to enjoy as a family, the library has something for you. Make sure to fit some library fun into your holiday season.