Fairmount Center for Arts teaming with library on children’s programming

Fairmount Center for the Arts, with the support of a grant from the Ohio Arts Council, will be forming a partnership with the Geauga County Public Library’s Geauga West Branch in Chester Township.

Through this partnership, the two organizations will collaborate to create, co-present and offer four early childhood, literacybased programs for children ages 3-6 years and with their accompanying grown-ups, according to a news release.

These interactive workshops, one-hour each, will be focused on a variety of early childhood literature and each book’s content will be complemented by introductory experiences in the arts, the release stated. The children will be invited to go on an arts active reading adventure that will take young explorers into

the story through creative movement, theater, music and an art project.

Workshops have been designed by Fairmount faculty and administration from the library.

Each workshop will feature a children’s book and accompanying arts programming which extends the content and concepts of the book. These programs will be co-taught by professionals representing both organizations.

These programs will be offered for free due to a grant received by Fairmount from the Ohio Arts Council.

“We are thrilled that the Ohio Arts Council recognized the unique and valuable nature of this partnership,” said Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, Fairmount’s executive director, in the release.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to introduce and engage the community to the resources and programs of both these community treasures.”

Lisa Mertel, the branch manager of the Geauga West Library added “anytime we can reach more children and help develop early literacy skills, everyone wins. We are excited to be working with the Fairmount Center for the Arts.”

The four workshops scheduled are as follows:

• “Zoom to the Moon” — March 6, 1-2 p.m.

• “SpringSpring into Spring” — April 18, 10:3011:30 a.m.

• “Wiggle on a Safari” — May 9, 10:30-11:3 a.m.

• “Play at the Beach” — June 5, 1-2 p.m.