Hodge Podge of fun on tap
Hodge Podge from Toe Jam Puppet Band will be outside in front of the library at the West Street entrance from 3 to 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 25.
Several library staff members, including Head of Children’s Services Sarah Chapdelaine, will join Hodge Podge to hold signs and wave to people.
“The idea is to bring a smile to people’s faces during COVID,” Chapdelaine said. “It will be great to see our patrons, even in a socially distanced way.”
They will have goodie bags for people to pick up curbside at the Pearl Street entrance behind the library during the hour they are out there, one per family while supplies last.
Vinny Lovegrove, aka Hodge Podge, has performed at the library many times over the years as part of the popular Toe Jam Puppet Band, the last time during April vacation in 2019.
“I am hoping this event will bring a smile to peoples’ faces, and give them a reason to laugh,” Chapdelaine said. “We could all use something to smile about during this pandemic.”
Chapdelaine said she and the other library staff members miss seeing patrons of all ages, especially the younger set, in the library regularly. Although in-person browsing in the children’s room has been open for some
time, some days no one comes in.
“Working as a librarian is a very people-oriented job,” Chapdelaine said. “I miss seeing our families coming in on a regular basis and being able to plan in person programs and story times that I know they will enjoy. This will be a nice way to offer our patrons something a little out of the ordinary.”
Chapdelaine said that although the contents of the goodie bags are being kept under wraps patrons of all ages will be delighted by what is inside.
“The goodie bags will have fun surprises in them for children and adults, as well as information letting them know what the library has to offer people for programs and services during the pandemic,” Chapdelaine said. “We want to encourage everyone to stop by and pick one up at curbside. In addition to the goodies there will be information about the virtual programs we are offering as well as in person services that are available to the public right now. I think it will be a fun event.”
The library offers in person browsing and curbside pick-up of library materials, virtual programming, Craft Kits to Go for Kids, Tweens, and Adults, scanning, faxing, and printing services, and more.
For more information 978-534-7522 ext. 5, visit http://leominsterlibrary.org, and follow Leominster Public Library on Facebook and Instagram.