By Miriam Meza –
With the holidays right around the corner, what better way to get into the holiday spirit than to attend the Aurora Public Library West Branch holiday open house? This family-friendly event will be from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9, at Aurora Public Library’s West Branch. Whether you are a child and want to listen to a holiday storytime, or you are an adult who wants to make some crafts, this event has something for everyone!
Crafts include paper chains, a long-time favorite, ornaments, and much more. Staff member Bonnie Bogden once again will lead a favorite craft for all ages. She said, “I provide many different designs that participants can color with markers and cut out. They then give me the prepared art work and I laminate it. I’ve had people come back and tell me they still have the laminated artwork from years ago and hang it on their holiday tree every year!” Not only is this an event to remember, but it’s an event for a lifetime.
You will be mesmerized by the holiday decorations throughout the library, including the jaw-dropping tree at the center of the Library. If the activities and decorations aren’t enough to get you in the holiday spirit, indulge in refreshments and enjoy some live music with fun holiday tunes performed by the Fox Valley Orchestra Woodwind Quintet.
These songs will be narrated by lecturer and composer Jim Kendros. To top off the day, our all-time favorite guest will be in attendance, Santa! Make sure to bring him your Christmas list and bring your camera to capture the moment with him.
Although he won’t be passing out presents, our Library will be selling great gifts for the book-lovers, which include the famous $5 book bundles.
These neat gifts include hand-picked favorites from our librarians. Find some all-time favorite reads, series of books, and DVDs available for anyone on your Christmas list. You don’t want to miss this jolly event!
While you are at the West Branch, make sure to pick up a Bingo card and get started on the Winter Reading challenge. Bingo cards are available for pick up and drop off at all our locations. Complete items on your Bingo card such as reading for 15 minutes or trying a recipe from a cookbook. When your Bingo card is completed, turn it in to any circulation desk to enter a chance to win a prize basket. This Winter Reading challenge is open to all ages.
Miriam Meza is communications manager for Aurora Public Library.