Norwalk Public Library readies for Holiday Extravaganza

Norwalk Public Library expects 300 people to visit for its third annual Holiday Extravaganza from 5-7 p.m., Dec. 6, at 46 W. Main St.

As residents became more comfortable in groups after the coronavirus pandemic, the library revived events beginning with a children’s Halloween party in 2021, said Assistant Director Miranda Jenkins.

“We were so thrilled with the turnout, we decided to throw another party in December,” Jenkins said, adding that ever since, library events have been well-attended. “We think we’re on par to have another 300 people.”

The event always includes live music, animals for children to read to and refreshments.

The library collaborates with the Firelands Historical Society, which was founded in the Carnegie-era building and now occupies space nearby.

The Firelands Historical Society hosts Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as provides refreshments, Jenkins said.

This year, harpist Karen Westgate will perform as will magician Michael Mage.

The Whitman family will bring its pet rabbits for children to read to and take photos with.

“We’ll give the kids a chance to read to them, pet them and just be with animals,” Jenkins said, noting that last year’s animal guests will be a hard act to follow. “We had so many people surprised that we had alpacas in the library.

“And, we had so many kids — and several adults — wanting pictures with the alpacas.”

Jenkins said the holiday events are a great way to bring the community into the library and spread the word about its services.

“So many people don’t know we offer so many activities for free,” she said. “Ohio is so fortunate to have so many libraries.

“Everyone is doing something a little bit different.”

Notary services are the latest addition to the Norwalk Public Library’s offerings.

Residents are encouraged to call ahead to make sure the properly credentialed staff member is on duty.

Jenkins said she also is excited about the Norwalk Public Library’s Book Bugs program, which offers trading cards for youngsters and adults who record reading hours.

The program runs during the school year as a way to maintain reading momentum begun during the popular summer program.

“We’re trying to encourage kids to read throughout the school year with some additional incentive,” Jenkins said. “We think it’s a great program.”

Other recurring events include a weekly story time, monthly family party and monthly Kids in the Kitchen events.

At 4:30 p.m., Dec. 12, a staff member will share her family’s secrets to making pierogis for the Kids in the Kitchen program geared toward first- through sixth-graders.

The next family party is set for Jan. 30 and is themed around the “Bad Guys” series of middle grade chapter books.

“We love to have people in our library enjoying the space,” Jenkins said. “Everything the library does is free.

“Anyone who is able to come, we want them to come.”

The Norwalk Public Library also has a story walk installed at Sofios Park on North Old State Road.

The book “Wombats are Pretty Weird” by Abi Cushman has just been installed.

Depending on the weather in early 2024, the book likely will be displayed through the end of January, Jenkins said.

“We think folks who go out will learn a lot,” Jenkins added.

Some library programs such as the Holiday Extravaganza are open to all to drop in, she said.

Others like Kids in the Kitchen require registration, Jenkins said.

For complete details on all events, visit www.norwalk.lib.oh.us.

“We think that libraries across the state are doing just phenomenal work,” Jenkins said. “We are thrilled to be a small part of it.”