October was Canadian Library Month. Canadian Library Month is an opportunity for the local community to celebrate the importance of the Boyne Regional Library in Carman.
More than just a place to find books, libraries promote cultural awareness, engage in the community, provide educational programs, support freedom of expression, and so much more. The Boyne Regional Library has had a busy month and will have some other exciting events in the coming weeks.
The library partnered with the Carman-Dufferin Fire Department and Safe Communities Carman-Dufferin for Fire Prevention Week. Children participated in a colouring contest to enter a random draw to win a prize basket. The prize basket consisted of two fire department Lego sets, various books, and other activities. The winner of the prize basket will be randomly drawn on Nov. 1 and posted on the library website, social media, and bulletin board.
On Oct. 9, adults and seniors gathered at the library for its Afghan-a-thon, where they came together to crochet and knit six-inch squares. These colourful squares will be assembled into Afghan lap blankets and donated to the Carman Palliative Care Program.
“It was a wonderful day of creativity and community spirit, as participants shared their skills and contributed to a meaningful cause,” said Lynsey Hannah of the Boyne Regional Library.
At the library’s monthly Creative Connection event on Oct. 17, local Hutterite authors Dora and Elma Maendel captivated an audience of over 50 community members and children with readings from their books, Deborah’s Journey and A is for Ankela, respectively. Attendees were treated to a rich discussion about Hutterite life and culture, gaining insight into the inspiration behind the authors’ works and the unique perspectives they bring to storytelling.
The Boyne Regional Library will host its third annual Youth Maker Market on Nov. 16 from 12 to 3 p.m. The market highlights talented youth’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit from the local community and surrounding areas. Visitors can browse various unique items, including hand-poured candles, watercolour bookmarks, and decorative key fobs. Every purchase gives shoppers a chance to win one of four $50 Carman Chamber Cash Bucks, generously sponsored by Community Futures Heartland. So come out and support the young entrepreneurs and enjoy a day of creativity.
The library is also excited to host its second Annual Mini Art Show, featuring incredible artwork created by some community members. Participants were given tiny canvases to paint at home, which will be returned for display. The exhibition will be open from Nov. 20 to Dec. 12, providing an excellent opportunity to admire the creativity of its patrons. Take advantage of this chance to appreciate local talent and celebrate the artistic spirit of our community.
If you want to support the Boyne Regional Library, the current fundraiser is Wine Survivor. Wine Survivor is a fun and exciting way to do so, and participants have a chance to win wine before the holiday season.
Wine Survivor will help fund library programs for children and families this year. Registration is open from Oct. 30 until Nov. 29. To register, all you need is a team of four participants at least 18 years of age and drop off the registration of $60 and four bottles of wine at the library. All team member names are individually entered into a draw. Ten names are drawn each day, Tuesday to Friday, beginning Dec. 3. Each day, the first nine names will be eliminated, and the tenth will receive eight bottles of wine to share with their teammates. On the last day of the draw, all previous winners and remaining participants enter an elimination draw. The last name drawn wins up to 28 bottles of wine.
“As we wrap up Canadian Library Month, we want to remind the community of the essential role that we serve in our community,” said Hannah. “We encourage everyone to visit the library and explore our website for additional resources, events, and programs.”
