By Lauren Schiavone
Hometown Weekly Staff
Westwood locals had an alternative to waiting in long lines for Black Friday shopping — in the interest of giving, many took a sentimental route and visited the Westwood Public Library for an afternoon of gift-wrapping and crafting at Cookies, Cocoa and Crafts. The programming at the library is full of festive events thorough the rest of the month (and throughout the year, for that matter), and this one presented an especially joyous way to ring in the season.
The event was specifically designed to bring community together and get everyone prepared for the holidays in a lighthearted and creative way. Library patrons were welcomed into the community room with light refreshments — cookies, and of course, cocoa, were offered to everyone — amplifying the cozy environment.
The community room was busy, but there was plenty of space to pull up a chair and make new friends. A virtual fireplace crackled while holiday music played in the background. Volunteers and library staff chaperoned craft stations — there were multiple, ensuring that there was a craft for all tastes — for those who wanted a little instruction before individualizing their own creations. The impressive crafts included paper snowflakes, beaded pipe-cleaner wreaths, popsicle stick snowflakes, and gift bag decorating.
“If people want to bring them home to give as gifts, we have package decorating and gift bag decorating,” Head of Adult Services Abby Walsh reported. “This one seems to be the popular one,” she added, gesturing towards the large paper snowflakes nearby. The unique patterns were simple enough to learn, but absolutely stunning once placed on a wall as decor (or, for that matter, on a mantel or holiday tree). Grandmothers worked with their grandkids and siblings teamed up to make the crafts even more sentimental.
Walsh and Head of Youth Services Kristy Pasquariello were both impressed by the turnout of the program. “We’re looking to do more intergenerational programs,” Walsh shared. “There will be many more.”
“There’s a great mix here already,” added Pasquariello.
Friends that have met due to prior library programs still keep in contact and look forward to having a friend at the next event. The community congregates at the library and valuable bonds are formed. For more information on future library programs, visit the Westwood Public Library in person or online at www.westwoodlibrary.org
