The elves in the library’s Community Makerspace, better known as our IT people Aaron and David, have been busy lately.

They have created book shaped cookie cutters using the 3D printer! Perfect for bakers or anyone making salt dough ornaments, these will be included in any surprise bags library staff prepare for children this holiday season. If you would like us to pick out some library books for you, call your local branch of the library and answer a few questions about your child’s age and interests, and whether they’d like any Christmas or Chanukah books, and we’ll do the rest. If you would like to learn more about 3D printing and how you can create your own custom cookie cutters, call (613) 476-5692. The library’s Dremel laser cutter has also been in high gear recently! We have been using it to decorate wood ornaments with a custom design burned right into the wood. This holiday season, while supplies last, you can create your own custom ornament at no charge! You can use any black and white image as long as it is clear at a small size. For example, if a child in your life has a simple line drawing, you can scan it and turn it into a wood burned image on the ornament. They also make a great gift. You can come into the Picton Branch Library by appointment to see the machine in action and create your own, or collaborate with Aaron or David over the phone and pick up your ornament by curbside pickup at any branch of the library.

If the children in your life are feeling creative, they can pick up a Grab and Go craft bag. Chock full of an assortment of craft items, children can take these bags and create a gift for a caregiver or loved one independently. Call your local branch to reserve yours! Missing your annual photo with Santa this year? We have a high tech solution! The green screen will be set up at the Picton Branch Library. Families or “bubbles” can come by appointment for a photo, and then we’ll beam Santa in, straight from the North Pole, in the background. You’ll get a photo by email after the tech magic happens. Book your appointment by calling the Picton Branch Library (613) 476-5962. Join Krista on Sunday afternoons at the Picton Branch Library. You can book your time by email [email protected] for a special program with stories, crafts and more, or take your chances dropping in as we’re still limiting numbers in at any one time. If your children want to come in on Sundays to browse and borrow books or Grab and Go craft bags, they are welcome to do that as well.

NOTICE: The Wellington Branch Library is closed for in-library browsing until further notice. Curbside pickup is still available. Call (613) 399-2023 if you would anything set out for curbside pickup for you. We can also select items for you – just call.

-Liz Zylstra