The Barriere Library branch has new activities in its winter program, including a weekly retro story-time and craft group.
Each Tuesday at 11 a.m., library branch head Pam Rudd will play a story from her personal collection of vinyl records, while participants work on a craft. The retro story-time program launched on Jan. 10, when Rudd played a record of Pinocchio.
Rudd’s collection of vinyls continues to grow and is inspired by her childhood favourites. Recently, she bought a record of Alice in Wonderland, which she expects to arrive next week. All ages can enjoy the group, but children seemed especially engaged with the story during the program’s first week, Rudd said.
“It was kind of a fun way to introduce a different generation to some old technology,” Rudd added. “And a lot of the stories are timeless.”
A common misconception is that libraries are just for books, but there are a wide variety of programs for all ages and interests — from story-walks in Fadear Park to ukulele and guitar lending, Rudd said.
Another new activity group is the manga youth program, which will meet on Jan. 25 and Feb. 22. There, fans of Japanese graphic novels can share recommendations and join in on some crafty activities such as button making and designing a zine.
Rudd also highlighted that the library loans out family fitness passes and Kamloops Wildlife Park passes free of charge.
Registration is not required for the retro story-time or manga programs but some other upcoming events require people to sign-up ahead of time to participate. For example, on Jan. 26 the library is hosting a game-based escape room, which participants must register for ahead of time, according to the winter program guide.
More information on upcoming activities and event registration is available on the library’s website: tnrl.libcal.com.