By Jacob Fehr
ON Friday, December 13, Norfolk County Public Library (NCPL) held a storytime event with Santa Claus at its Port Dover branch. Almost 30 children gathered with nine caregivers to listen as Santa read A Creature Was Stirring by author Heather Pierczynski and artist Skylar Hogan.
Julie Kent, NCPL CEO, said they have storytime events weekly but it’s “rather special to have Santa Claus [visit].” She was delighted by how the children received Santa.
“The cheery buzz, the energy, it’s contagious,” Ms. Kent said.
She commented on the impact such events have, pointing out that the “community-led library” provides social benefits to users.
“Anytime the community engages in the library… it’s multifaceted. They’re able to connect as a community [and] meet other parents, children,” she said.
Sabrina Latorre brought her son Henry Latorre to storytime. She echoed Ms. Kent’s comments on the value of NCPL programming.
“It’s nice to have him be social with other kids. Getting out of the house is nice too… We come most Fridays, and we usually pick up some books too. It’s nice to get him reading, which we do at home a lot,” Ms. Latorre said. “Anything Christmas is fun too.”
After the story, a caregiver led the group in singing Jingle Bells together, and Santa heard Christmas wishes from the children. Ms. Kent said, “We’re inclusive and everyone can contribute here. It’s the unity of the community.”
She shared that Santa also visited Simcoe’s branch on Friday, Dec. 20, for another storytime with children.
“The library is the community’s place and we welcome them,” she said.
This winter, the library is inviting the community to join its Winter Reading Challenge to read for 10 minutes every day for a chance to win prizes. Participants can track their daily reading progress using the Beanstack platform at norfolklibrary.beanstack.org to register, or stop by the library branch to register and get more information on this winter program.
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Originally published December 24, 2024
