Inspired by nature
Sometimes the hustle bustle of everyday living means we often miss the beauty of our surroundings. The breeze on a spring day, the hummingbirds that visit our bird feeders — sometimes we all have to unplug and take joy in the simple things that nature offers us.
For some, it might be watching birds while for others it could be admiring local landmarks, painted and on display for everyone to appreciate. Whether it is reading a book outdoors, joining others over a common interest or listening to stories about animals and exotic landscapes, our libraries are always there to help with materials and programs that cover a variety of topics.
Drop in, and explore what we have to offer.
Animals, local and exotic The sound of birds chirping can be soothing, but also entertaining for some. Whether you’re borrowing Canada’s Birds (Scholastic, 2010) written by Susan Hughes to help the kids with their homework, or listening to Bird Songs from Around the World (Chronicle Books, 2007) by Les Beletsky, we have a wide variety of books about birds in various formats available to borrow. Better yet, if you enjoy bird watching, or call yourself a ‘birder’ then why not join others that have the same interest at the Pictou Library on June 5 at 6 p.m.?
This gathering is an informal one, for those who want to learn about our local birds or are learning to identify and watch for/see unique birds in their neighbourhood. If you are interested in learning more, call the library at (902) 485-5021.
Maybe you want to learn more about animals of an exotic nature? I think it’s pretty safe to say you may not see hyenas and giraffes roaming around the countryside in Nova Scotia, but on June 6 at 2:30 p.m., our speaker Kelley Cavan will be talking about a safari she went on in Botswana a few years ago, animals she saw, and her experience traveling to the country.
For those unfamiliar with Botswana, it is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and has a landscape defined by the Kalahari Desert and the Okavango Delta, which becomes a lush animal habitat during the seasonal floods. It’s also home to numerous animals including giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs. Tea, coffee and light snacks will be served at the last Community Café before breaking for the summer. All are welcome.
Art inspired by the landscape
Sometimes the communities people live in inspire them to be creative, channelling their creativity through various mediums. Art is one of those mediums. That’s why the New Glasgow Library is excited to be hosting an exhibit by local artist Sheila Green titled: Flourish- A Collection, with the opening reception taking place on June 8 at 7 p.m. During the opening reception, visitors can meet Sheila Green and admire the beauty of New Glasgow through the artist’s eyes as they explore the 18 paintings she created over a seven-month period that show her love of New Glasgow and its everyday charm. After the opening event, Shelia’s paintings will be on display until June 29. Tea, coffee and light snacks will be provided, so drop in, enjoy a cup of tea and a snack, and talk to the artist.
Another piece of artwork inspired by the landscape is one that we’re selling tickets on as a fundraiser. This 16-by-20-inch framed Greece-inspired piece of artwork is on display at the New Glasgow Library, with the price of tickets being one for $2 or three for $5. They can be purchased at public library locations throughout Pictou and Antigonish counties. This painting was generously donated by local artist Cathy Leeming.
For more information on upcoming library programs, special events and services, please drop by your local library branch, follow us on Twitter, find us on Facebook, or visit us online at www. parl.ns.ca.