LaFayette Library rolls out fall lineup of community programs
BY SAM VISE
THE LAFAYETTE SUN
LAFAYETTE — The LaFayette Library has unveiled its full schedule of fall programming, offering hands-on activities, book discussions and creative workshops designed for all ages, from infants to adults.
Running from September through December, the fall schedule features free weekly storytimes, after-school clubs for elementary students and midday gatherings tailored for working adults and local retirees.
“I think the programs at the library offer everyone an opportunity to come and try a new skill, learn something new, read new books and meet new friends,” said Rachel Johnson, branch manager of the LaFayette Library. “That goes from preschoolers all the way up to adults.”
Storytime and Early Literacy
Early childhood programming kicked off Tuesday, Sept. 15, with the return of weekly Storytime at 1 p.m. Designed primarily for newborns up to age 5 or 6 — though open to older children and local homeschooling families — each hour-long session follows a consistent theme that pairs a read-aloud story with a themed craft and social play.
“The way storytime typically goes, it’s about an hour, and I’ll read a story on the theme, we’ll make a craft based off of the book or the theme, and then the kids will have playtime,” Johnson said. “We normally have blocks, puzzles and different activities for them to work on with their friends.”
Upcoming storytime themes include Beaches on Sept. 22, Boxes on Sept. 29 and Firetrucks on Oct. 6.
On Tuesday, Oct. 13, storytime transitions to an evening event with the annual Book Character Parade at 4 p.m. Children and families are encouraged to arrive dressed as their favorite storybook characters for an indoor parade around the library, accompanied by a special reading, family bingo and popcorn.
December wraps up the semester with festive themes, including a Stuffed Animal Party on Dec. 1, Winter Wacky Hat Day on Dec. 8 and Winter Games with milk and cookies on Dec. 15, where attendees can wear their favorite pajamas.
After-School Fun Lab
For school-age children, the library hosts its After-School Fun Lab on select Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.
“After they’ve been in school all day, they don’t necessarily want to just sit down and do more seated things,” Johnson said. “We try to find fun, hands-on activities where they can get up, talk with their friends and enjoy the activity.”
The Fun Lab schedule includes:
Sept. 17: Popcorn, Pictionary & Prizes
Oct. 8: Dot Art Paper Pumpkins
Oct. 22: Beaded Pet Keychains
Nov. 5: Bad Art Night
Nov. 12: Lego Club
Dec. 10: Snowman Cookies
Adult Workshops and Socials
The library has also expanded mid-day programming for adults, scheduling several workshops at noon so working community members can drop in during a lunch break.
The adult programs begin Friday, Sept. 25, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. with a beginner-friendly Basket Making class taught by local artisan Pat Harriger. The hands-on workshop takes roughly three hours and allows participants to leave with a finished basket. It is the only program of the season with an admission fee ($5), and pre-registration is required.
Other adult offerings throughout the season are free of charge:
Oct. 6 (2-4 p.m.): Tech Help with Charles, offering one-on-one troubleshooting and guidance for smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Oct. 12 (noon): Books & Bites, an informal lunch-hour chat where attendees can talk about current reads while enjoying complimentary snacks and drinks.
Nov. 13 (noon): Sip & Paint, featuring pre-printed fall nature canvases and light refreshments (pre-registration required).
Dec. 2 (noon): Knit & Chat, welcoming needlepoint, crochet and knitting crafters of all skill levels to socialize while working on projects.
Johnson said community members are also welcome to take advantage of cross-branch opportunities through the Chambers County Library system, including trips hosted by the Bradshaw-Chambers County Library in Valley.
“That’s one thing I like about our library system: if it’s something that you want to participate in in LaFayette, come on up here; if it’s something you want to participate in in Valley, you are more than welcome to sign up at either place,” Johnson said. “There are a lot of wonderful programs and activities done all over Chambers County all the time, so we’re just glad to be able to add to the mix.”
For more information, class registration or program updates, visit the LaFayette Library in person at 198 1st St. SE in LaFayette or call (334) 864-0012.
