The Miami Library is embracing the spirit of fall with a full slate of creative programs, cozy gatherings, and prize-filled celebrations throughout October.
As part of Library Month, the branch is offering workshops, social clubs, and special incentives for patrons, all designed to bring the community together through shared creativity and a love of reading.
“September is our quiet month after the busyness of summer and our Bookland Explorers program,” said Raina Teigrob, branch administrator. “Lining up a few workshops and events is a great way to keep people coming in the doors.”
Among the highlights is a Book Bedazzling workshop on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m., where participants can decorate their favourite book with colourful beads. The $10 registration fee includes all supplies and snacks, and the event is open to those aged 16 and older.
The library is also teaming up with the Miami Arts Association to host a Lino Print Workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 29. The beginner-friendly session invites participants to follow a guided carving tutorial and create their own artwork. The fee is $25 per person, with registration required.
“Offering programs like these, especially in small towns, is a great way to promote what libraries have to offer,” Teigrob said. “We’re so much more than books — we’re a hub for the community. We want people to think of us when they’re looking for something to pass the time, whether that’s a book, board game, movie, event, club, or simply a place to study and connect.”
Teigrob said the response to creative workshops has been encouraging.
“Sometimes events can be a hit or miss. You have to take a chance on something new once in a while, but you really learn what the community is looking for and what kinds of holes you can fill by offering different events,” she explained. “We’ve found that creative events along these lines seem to do better than more passive programs.”
Returning after a summer break, Cookbook Club continues to be a hit with local food enthusiasts. The group gathers monthly to share dishes inspired by a chosen theme — past topics have included appetizers, cultural dishes, and dips and sauces. September’s meeting focused on canning and preserves, while the upcoming Nov. 4 meeting will explore cakes.
“We borrowed this idea from our sister branch in Winkler,” Teigrob said. “It seemed to be a huge hit there, so we altered the program to fit a smaller branch, and things have been going great. Patrons especially enjoy the opportunity to try new recipes and engage with the group about them.”
For anyone hesitant to join in, Teigrob encourages residents to take the leap.
“Get out there! It can be scary to go to events alone but grab a friend and come on out,” she said. “Most events are more relaxed than you’d think. It’s also such a great way for your library to continue offering services like these — it’s how we know there’s a need for them.”
Another welcoming space for creativity is Crafters + Co., which meets Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m. No registration is required; participants simply bring their own craft project and enjoy an evening of conversation and community.
The library’s Book Club remains one of its most popular ongoing programs. This month’s pick is The Briar Club by Kate Quinn, available for borrowing through the branch.
Throughout October, visitors can also earn prize draw entries each time they check out items. Extra entries are available through weekly “Book of the Week” challenges, including reading a non-fiction title (Oct. 14–18), a classic (Oct. 21–25), and a Halloween-themed book (Oct. 28–Nov. 1).
Teigrob said Library Month is the perfect opportunity to highlight how libraries connect people and ideas.
“October is Library Month, and it’s the perfect opportunity for us to showcase all the unique aspects of what a library can offer,” she said. “Programs like these bring in a new crowd — maybe someone who’s never had a library card, a non-reader, or someone new to the community.”
Meanwhile, the Ford Bronco raffle remains a major fundraiser for the South Central Regional Library system, marking its 60th anniversary. The draw’s proceeds will benefit branches across the region.
“Each branch has a unique project that funds will be allocated to,” Teigrob said. “In Miami, we plan to put the funds toward a long-awaited reading garden connecting the library with our Railway Museum next door. It would be a public space for all and a great place to host programs.”
Tickets for the raffle are $100 (cash only) and available at all SCRL branches in Altona, Manitou, Miami, Morden, and Winkler, as well as Rhineland Car in Altona. The draw takes place Dec. 15 at 1 p.m.
As for what Teigrob enjoys most about this time of year:
“What’s not to love about fall at the library?” she said with a laugh. “Programming for adults and teens starts back up — like Astro Club and Cookbook Club — new spooky books start arriving, and it’s the best time for seasonal displays and décor!”
The branch will be open 12–4 p.m. on Halloween, and children are encouraged to stop by in costume for treats.
To register for a program or learn more, contact the Miami Library at miamistaff435@gmail.com or call 204-435-2032, and visit the South Central Regional Library website or social media for updates.
