Whether singing, baking or crafting, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library feels the Christmas spirit and wants to share that spirit with its guests.
Silver bells and silver screens
On Sunday, December 15, library staff member Adrianna Polito, a trained opera singer, will perform a concert described as a “cozy December afternoon in the library.”
“She is a trained soprano and was very, very gracious to lend her talents to us for a small fundraiser,” said Debbie Krause, the library’s community engagement coordinator.
Polito's performances include appearances with the Port Colborne Operatic Society, Garden City Productions in St. Catharines and the Firehall Theater in Niagara Falls.
The live performance will feature Christmas movie tunes and holiday classics with Niagara Falls native Anthony Scaringi on piano.
Scaringi is an accomplished Niagara pianist.
His duties include serving as accompanist for the Queenston Ladies' Choir and as bandleader and co-music director for the 2019 winter season of NOTL's Yellow Door Theater Project.
“There will also be a sing-along component,” Krause added.
The concert will take place in the main room of the library under the rotunda.
“We’re going to move the shelves out of the way and it’s going to be in the middle of the room,” Krause said.
“The library will be closed and it will be under the great dome.”
All proceeds from the $15 ticket price go back to the library to help improve programs, services and collections.
Christmas baking
If you think your baked goods at home stand out from the rest, you can test that theory on December 17 at the library's Holiday Cookie/Squares Exchange.
The format is simple: bring your already baked cookies and let the tasting begin.
Registrants will receive an email from Krause the day before the event letting them know how many people have registered.
Once this number is determined, each participant bakes as many cookies of their choice so that each participant can have six cookies.
“And then everyone makes a choice,” said Krause.
Coffee and tea as well as plates, bowls and cutlery are provided – bring your own serving utensils.
The event lasts from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m
Wrapping paper for old book pages
For those thinking about a green Christmas, using recycled book pages to make the perfect gift bow is a great way to stay eco-friendly.
Also on Dec. 17, this session as part of the library's Craft Connect workshop series will focus on converting old book pages into gift wrapping supplies to add a unique touch to holiday gifts.
The event will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and all craft materials will be provided.
Registration or general inquiries about these and other NOTL Public Library events can be made via email dkrause@notlpl.org.