The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Library uses extra craft supplies to create fun event
The Lorain Public Library System North Ridgeville Branch, 35700 Bainbridge Road, found a creative way Aug. 21 of using extra craft supplies by allowing children to come in and create to their hearts were content.
“We call it our Craft Closet,” said Ally Morgan, youth services director at the North Ridgeville Branch. “We have a ton of materials left over from various story times. It’s something that gives us a reason to have an event and give the kids something to do.”
Morgan said the materials cover a wide range of different crafts.
“I have them each set out in different stations based on what we did in the past,” she said. “We have a section on dinosaurs, a section that utilizes paper lunch bags to make puppets and other fun things that kids will be able to do and enjoy.”
Morgan said the event usually is a big draw.
“We usually have it on Saturdays, but had to shift to today for event reasons,” she said. “We still have had a good amount show up despite the change.
“We just continue to try and come up with events people will love, and I’m glad they have taken to this so well.”
Morgan said an upcoming event at the branch will feature children reading to dogs.
“The event, Browser’s Reading Buddies, involves first- through fifth-graders reading to certified Therapy Dog International canines,” she said. “It truly is a wonderful Lana Walters, 5, of North Ridgeville, applies glue to her masterpiece.
event where kids are free to read to someone and not worry about the judgement that may come in other environments.
“We have the event every first Saturday of the month.”
The next reading will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 1. To register, call 440-327-8326.
Bonnie Long of Avon brought her children to the Craft Closet event.
“School hasn’t started yet, so the kids needed something to do,” Long said. “They always have such good programs here, it makes it easy.”
Ellen Hujo of Avon said the event had perfect timing due to the weather.
“The rain really limits what I can do with the kids,” Hujo said. “The library is right around the corner and always has something going on.”
Sophie Walters of North Ridgeville brought her granddaughter to the event.
“This library is excellent,” Walters said. “The events are always fun and engaging; people need to take more advantage of it.”