“December, being the last month of the year, cannot help but to make us think of what is to come.” -Fennel Hudson
As we step into December and the close of another year, the William B. Ogden Free Library invites you to pause and reflect on the season ahead and the new year waiting just around the corner. Amid the flurry of holiday activities and end-of-year plans, we hope this library can be a place of solace and quiet joy. Whether you choose to unwind with a favorite book, catch up on a project, or simply enjoy a moment of stillness, it’s here to be a haven during this busy time.
This month, we’ll keep things simple with our regular programming and the annual Sit with Santa event Saturday, Dec. 14, from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. Kids and kids at heart can meet Santa, share their wish lists, and capture cherished memories by the fireplace. Staff will be on hand to help take family photos. Head to the lower level afterward for cookies, milk, a simple holiday craft, and festive music. Each child will also have the opportunity to select a free book as a special gift.
We look forward to sharing this season of warmth and reflection with you and welcoming the new year together.
Library Events
Knit & Crochet Group: Tuesdays, 3 p.m. Gather on the main floor for yarn crafts and conversation. Bring the project you are working on and enjoy friendly conversation as you knit and crochet.
Dungeons and Dragons: First & third Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m. Calling all adventurers! Dungeon Master Amanda Mills hosts Dungeons and Dragons game days designed for players ages 12 and up. A world of fantasy, strategy, and imagination as you embark on thrilling quests with fellow heroes. Get ready to roll the dice and create unforgettable memories. Materials and pre-made characters included.
Mahjong: Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mahjong players or those who want to learn are welcome. All skill levels welcome.
Storytime: Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Join us on the lower level for songs, rhymes, stories, and crafts to entertain your littles!
Dexter’s Coding Lab: Thursdays, Dec. 5, 12, and 19, 5-6 p.m. For kids age 8-12, we’ve introduced Dexter’s Coding Lab. Participants will be taught basic coding skills using Scratch, a block-based programming platform designed to make coding accessible and fun. Limited computers will be available, so bringing your own laptop is encouraged. Sign up is required and students will need an email account to access the platform.
Silent Book Club: Thursday, Dec. 5, 6:30-8 p.m. Join us for a tranquil literary escape at Silent Book Club. Held on the first Thursday of each month, immerse yourself in an evening of peaceful reading and companionship. Indulge in complimentary snacks and drinks or bring a treat to share on the library’s lower level. Engage in light conversation about recent reads during the first 30 minutes, then relish in an uninterrupted hour of quiet reading. Open to adults and teens 16+ - discover the joy of silent immersion in the world of books.
Crafterwork: Thursday, Dec. 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m. A festive evening of crafting at the Library. Due to its former popularity, the folded book page Christmas tree project from six years ago has been brought back. Using recycled books and small baubles, those participating will create a charming Christmas tree decoration, perfect for your table or mantle. Supplies are provided, but space is limited so be sure to call 607-865-5929 to register in advance. Don’t miss this chance to make a unique holiday décor and enjoy a fun and creative night out.
Sit With Santa: Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m. - noon. We couldn’t be more excited! Bring the whole family to meet Santa in front of the library’s fireplace. Capture the magic with a photo, and make sure those wish lists are ready. Every child who attends may choose a free book to take home. After the visit with Santa, head to the lower level for cookies, milk, and a fun holiday craft - a day full of festive fun for kids and kids at heart. Don’t miss this special holiday tradition.
Reel Fun After Hours: Saturday, Dec. 14, 6-8 p.m. Enjoy a magical movie night experience on a big screen in the comfort of the library after it closes. Bring family and friends for an exclusive evening of cinematic adventure and fun, and a blanket to make yourself comfortable. We’ll provide free popcorn and candy. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the library after hours. The movie will be “Home Alone” rated PG.
Book Club: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 7-8 p.m. on the lower level. This month’s book is “Rain Reign” by Ann M. Martin. Rose Howard has Asperger’s syndrome, and an obsession with homonyms (even her name is a homonym). She gave her dog Rain a name with two homonyms (Reign, Rein), which, according to Rose’s rules of homonyms, is very special. Rain was a lost dog Rose’s father brought home. Rose and Rain are practically inseparable. And they are often home alone, as Rose’s father spends most evenings at a bar, and doesn’t have much patience for his special-needs daughter. Just as a storm hits town, Rain goes missing. Rose’s father shouldn’t have let Rain out. Now Rose has to find her dog, even if it means leaving her routines and safe places to search. Rose will find Rain, but so will Rain’s original owners. Copies can be reserved through interlibrary loan - call the library at 607-865-5929 or visit www.4cls.org
Lego Club: Friday, Dec. 20, 3-4:30 p.m. The monthly LEGO Club meets every third Friday from 3-4:30. This year young architects-in-training can embark on a journey to construct iconic landmarks like Big Ben, and the Empire State Building with kits ranging in complexity. For elementary and up.
Change In Library Hours The library will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 24 and 25, for Christmas, and Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, for the New Year holiday.
