We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
After being intrigued by a pumpkin decorating contest while she was visiting a Facebook group for teachers/librarians, Assistant Librarian Carly Vauthier presented the idea to Harlem Public Library Board Members, who adopted it. Entries for The Great Pumpkin Contest are due to the library by October 27 at 6:00 p.m. Other events this month include the Buy A Bag O' Books sale and the Friends of the Library celebration.
For the Great Pumpkin Contest, Blaine County residents are invited to decorate a pumpkin as a favorite book character, using any craft materials of the creator's choice. Pumpkins can be carved, painted, or otherwise artistically enhanced. Prizes will be given in three categories: ages 1-8, ages 9-14, and ages 15-older.
According to Vauthier, potential prizes will be a free book and a bag of candy for each age category. Two unbiased members of the Harlem community will serve as third party judges. "This is our first year of doing a pumpkin decorating contest," Vauthier stated. "If you do a Google search for 'book character pumpkins,' there are some very cute ideas out there!"
Some schools use pumpkin book report projects each year to get students excited about reading while giving them a chance to express their creativity.
Whether every class decorates a pumpkin like a character in a children's book or whether each student individually creates a character pumpkin-either an actual pumpkin, a foam pumpkin from a craft store, or a paper printable-teachers report that the project produces effective results.
Upon the craft's completion, many schools host a Gallery Walk of the students' work or display the completed art in a common place for viewing and for celebrating books, reading, and creativity.
Other events at the Harlem Library this month include their used book sale and an invitation to celebrate Friends of the Harlem Library. For the duration of October, readers can bring in a grocery sack and fill it with used books for $1.00.
Then, during the week of October 17-23, people are invited to stop by 37 1st Avenue SE in Harlem to show their support for the Friends group. Interested individuals can join or renew their membership. The Friends of the Library group is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization whose role is to support library causes and services. Refreshments will be served throughout the week.
