As the leaves begin to change and school routines resume, the Jake Epp Library is rolling out an impressive lineup of fall programming that offers something for everyone.
Charlotte Kowalson, teens, adults and seniors program coordinator, says the library will be a happening little place.
“The library is not just about books or reading. It’s about a variety of literacy and about being a social place, a place where the community can gather,” Kowalson says.
She notes the library hosts about 18 different programs over the fall months, making it easy to be part of the hub.
“Most of (the programs) are drop-in. There’s a handful of them that are registration required.”
Writer in the works
The library offers multiple programs for writers, no matter if you’re young or young at heart.
“I want to foster an environment where writing is cool, and writing is good,” Kowalson notes.
In addition to their well-loved Creative Writers Group, Kowalson says two new writing focused workshops will be joining the schedule — Teen Drop-In Creative Writing and the Memoir Writing Group.
“We want to build up the self-confidence and build that ‘I am a writer’ feeling.”
With writing prompts provided and a supportive space to share your work, the library encourages everyone to bring their imagination.
Games with friends
Calling all bards, knights, and rangers!
The library offers Dungeons and Dragons programs for both teens and adults — registration required.
“We have two DMs (Dungeon Masters) and they’re here every time. And people are kind of gravitating to a certain DM. They're enjoying it,” Kowalson explains.
Aside from Dungeons and Dragons, the library hosts other game nights — including games like cribbage, cards, and others.
“We’re calling it Classic Games and Company,” Kowalson notes.
“You’re welcome to bring your own games. It's open to anybody.”
Care to craft?
If you’re a seasoned crafter or looking for a new hobby, the library is offering drop-in classes for you to work on your masterpieces.
Bring a project you’re working on or start something new with materials provided by the library.
Craft Connect, for adults, and Open Studio, for teens, are both programs to foster your creative spark and meet like-minded folks.
Learn to Draw is a guided instructional workshop for adults who are looking to enhance their drawing skills.
Drop the mic
This September, the library is dropping an Open Mic Night.
“Presenters need to register. Observers can just drop in,” Kowalson says.
Bring your plays, prose, and poetry, and let your voice be heard.
Life skills made accessible
Covering a variety of topics each month, this workshop aims to provide resources and learning materials on time management, budgeting, and the basics of taxes.
“We’re calling it Adulting 101,” Kowalson says.
She notes that whether you are fresh in the adult world, new to Canada, or want a refresher on some life basics, all are welcome to attend.
Another program, called Health Connect, brings in local health professionals to offer informative talks on a range of topics, from nutrition to mental wellness.
A place for parents
Another new program is hitting the calendar this autumn.
Village Connect is a guided conversational workshop for parents wanting to find more balance in their lives.
“It is following the basis of “it takes a village to raise a child’, and so it’s a parenting discussion,” Kowalson says.
Workshops will cover topics like managing burnout and maintaining strong relationships to self-care for caregivers.
More to explore
There is always something new to discover at the library.
For specifics on the Jake Epp Library's different programs, age ranges, and workshop dates, visit their website.
“Feedback is always welcome, especially about (things) like the time-of-day, length of a program, things like that,” Kowalson explains.
“We want this space to be for everyone.”