While Exeter Community Library continued to hold programs over the last two years amid the pandemic, the vast majority were either held virtually or in a socially distanced manner. Though still encouraging precautions continuing to monitor transmission levels, the return to in-person programming is a relief to many.
“I’m so glad our patrons have stayed with us during the past few years, and that they’re just as excited to attend these events in person as we are about holding them,” Exeter Community Library’s Executive Director Mallory Hoffman said in a release. “Virtual events have a time and place, but we’re beyond thrilled to welcome a full lineup of in-person events once more. I love seeing patron’s faces.”
When asked about the return to in-person programming, Evening Readers Book Club member Priscilla Gentry, a longtime library patron, said, “Better than spring after a long winter, it’s life returning back to normal!”
From weekly programs like Baby Lapsits and Children’s Story Time to monthly events like Movie Matinees, the Evening Readers Book Club, and a reintroduction of the monthly Knitting program, the library has something for everyone in the community.
Free yoga has been offered weekly for almost a full year, with rotating instructors visiting from Tula Yoga Center every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. Anyone age 10 and older may participate, attendees need to register in advance.
On April 6 at 6 p.m., the library welcomes Susan Hillman of Sunshine Signs in Kutztown for a class in Crafting Spring Door Hangers. Hillman creates handmade, hand-painted wooden signs perfect for home décor, holiday decorations, or gifts for friends and loved ones. The sign featured for this class welcomes spring with an abundance of color and cheer. The class is $25 per person, which covers instruction and the cost of materials. Payment must be received at the time of registration and can be made by cash or check. Registration is limited to 30 attendees. Register by April 4.
Two upcoming programs focus on the development of pretzels and pretzel-making throughout history.
First, on April 9 at 1 p.m., Jill Marie Thomas, the great-great-granddaughter of Julius Sturgis, gives a presentation on the history of America’s oldest commercial pretzel bakery, featuring photos, display items and her book, “Twisted: Mindful Pretzel Consumption” for sale. Autographed copies of the book may be purchased for $6 each, cash or check. The program is free and open to the public. Register in advance by calling the library at 610-406-9431 or email exetercl@berks.lib.pa.us.
Then, on April 25 at 6:30 p.m., Jason Sizemore of Butterhead Kitchen presents the program, A New Twist on an Old Favorite, which introduces recipes for vegan soft pretzels and nacho dip. This free program includes samples to taste. Registration is limited, register in advance at 610-406-9431 or email exetercl@berks.lib.pa.us.
Maria and Friends present an interactive puppet show at Exeter Community Library April 9. Pictured, Marian Gehman and Chester the Pa Dutch Mouse posed for photos after a 2019 show in Kutztown. (File photo -Lisa Mitchell, MediaNews Group)
Family-friendly programming also returns. With warmer temperatures and nicer weather, some of the children’s programming has moved outdoors to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air.
On April 8 at 6 p.m., ventriloquist Marian Gehman presents Marian and Friends, an interactive 45-minute show featuring Marian and her memorable cast of puppet characters. For more about Marian and Friends, visit http://www.marianandfriends.com/. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held indoors, with a maximum of 40 families in attendance. Registration is required. Email sxtchild@berks.lib.pa.us or call the library.
Author Melissa Stoller visits the library as part of the Literatour Berks program in a partnership with the Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks. “Planting Friendship: Peace, Salaam, Shalom,” a book Stoller co-authored, is on display at the Exeter Community Library StoryWalk trail at the library, 4565 Prestwick Drive, through May 9. The StoryWalk is a literacy-based installation designed for families to actively read together while enjoying the outdoors. Each page is displayed individually in a protective case over the course of the walk so the book can be read page by page over the entire trail.
During her author visit at 4 p.m. on April 24, Stoller will walk the trail as she reads and discusses the book. Signed copies of the book will also be available. The program includes door prizes and giveaways for children in attendance. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be held inside.
This StoryWalk book choice is sponsored by John, Mandy, Kara, and Kean Miller. The program and visit is sponsored by PJ Library Reading and Jewish Book Council. To register, visit www.ReadingJewishCommunity.org/home/literatour.
Unless otherwise specified, registration for all programs can be completed by calling the library directly at 610-406-9431 or emailing exetercl@berks.lib.pa.us. For detailed information on any of the programs or for hours of operation, visit www.berkslibraries.org/exeter. The library also encourages visits to their Facebook and Instagram pages to share in the fun of upcoming programs.
Source: Berkshire mont
Be First to Comment