One of my favorite things about libraries, and Ignacio Community Library in particular, is the wide variety of activities, materials, and interests you can find here. The word eclectic comes to mind. I love being able to explore a new skill without having to invest in new and costly equipment and materials. The library has the resources to provide our community with myriad opportunities for new experiences, skills, and ideas.
Take for instance, the Cricut machine in the IdeaLab. I wanted a gift for my grandkids who live a few states away. With the Cricut machine (and a little help from the staff) I was able to produce two cute t-shirts in short order. It was low-cost, I simply made a small donation for materials, and was able to use the machine on a Saturday afternoon, put it all away and mail off a fun care package.
The art group is always open to helping people get started so I’ve been thinking of trying out watercolor painting. I’m a little hesitant, but since I don’t have to make a huge investment in materials when I don’t even know if I’ll enjoy it, I’m more inclined to give it a try. This goes for all types of skills that I think I might like to learn. We even have a Zoom Insta-Pot class coming up soon, so folks can try their hand at cooking beans or other foods in a new way.
The list is endless, which is sometimes overwhelming, but mostly just exciting to imagine all the possibilities. Right now with gathering in limited numbers again, so we’re offering escape rooms. These mystery games are a fun way to get out, but still stay with your own family group and have a bit of excitement and mystery. Just call the library to reserve a time.
And if going somewhere is just not in the cards right now, remember that we offer Kanopy through the library website. Kanopy has new release movies, indie films, children’s shows and my favorite: Great Courses. I’ve recently been working my way through the Great Courses: Cooking Basics, which I thought I mostly knew, but have been learning a bunch.
So, just a reminder that you can be eclectic right along with me, exploring new and different ideas and skills through the materials offered by ICL. It’s a hard time; winter during a pandemic (again), but we’ve got some good options to help you get through it.