Believe it or not, Santa will be on his way in little more than a month — and the Stonewall library is already gearing up for a festive holiday season.
In December, the library will host the 15th annual Festival of Wreaths.
Branch librarian Joan Ransom said that once again, they’re asking local businesses, organizations, churches, schools, daycares and families to decorate an artificial wreath to put on display in the library for the month.
“While they are on display, citizens will be given the chance to vote for their favourite by making a $1 donation to the Cheer Board. This year, the Cheer Board will use some of the funds raised to purchase kids’ books as they hope to add a book for each child in families who receive hampers,” she said.
“The library will be including a family membership gift certificate for each hamper as well. We are always excited to share our library and resources with new patrons.”
The local Chamber of Commerce has also shared this event with their members, so the library team is hoping to get many entries.
“We invite participants to be creative and get crafting. Artificial wreaths can be decorated to represent the business or organization — the Scouts made the most adorable wreath featuring knots — and we hope that we get more youth and families participating,” Ransom said.
“We invite individual classes at school, extracurricular groups, hockey teams and neighbour groups to create a wreath for display. It is great promotion for one’s group or business and the money raised helps local families through the Stonewall and District Christmas Cheer Board.”
Last year, the votes brought in a total of $1,110 in donations. On Dec. 20, library staff will present the Cheer Board with all the money raised through the Festival of Wreaths. At the same time, they’ll award a certificate to the Top 3 wreaths (according to the vote tally) for bragging rights.
In another wintry initiative, the Stonewall library is collecting warm winter items — such as mittens, hats, gloves and scarves — for their Mitten Tree. Socks and slippers will also be collected in the giant Sock Stocking.
“In 2023, we collected and donated 571 items, which were distributed through the Cheer Board,” Ransom said.
“We are happy to accept handmade items as well as store bought new items for donation.”
The library will also feature a Christmas Cheer hamper drop-off box for new unwrapped toys and grocery gift cards.
“Some of the most needed items are gifts for teenagers (13 to 17 years), pajamas for all ages, hoodies or sweatpants for all ages, infant and toddler toys, games, crafts and school supplies,” Ransom said.
On the evening of the Santa Claus parade, the library will remain open from 6:30 to 8 p.m. so people can stay warm and cozy while watching through the library windows.
Community members can vote for a wreath during the parade or any time the branch is open in December.
“We are thankful for the generosity of our library patrons and their help with these activities,” Ransoms said.
Anyone with questions or donations can contact the Stonewall Branch at 204-467-8415 or stonewall@sirlibrary.com.
