Branch planned programs

Branch staff planned a variety of events for local interest, including art workshops with local artists, author visits and history presentations, concerts, and performers for children and families. A selection of feedback is included. Feedback from patrons Art workshops: 'A new opportunity.' '[Learned] beading and a bit about the culture.' 'I learned I can paint and it's fun.' '[Learned] blending of colors.' 'I've always wanted to try painting and it gave me the opportunity!' 'Child learned more about crafts with other kids.' 'Teacher gave great history of the art as well as tips and tricks to make it easier as a beginner.' 'Art is enriching. Great instructor!' 'Love these new arts & crafts! Thank you!' 'My children enjoyed expressing their artistic abilities.' 'I'll be making mosaics on my own time, it was fun!' 'Please continue having these events at the really small libraries. They are really important.' 'My child learned about art, using different items to make a craft.' 'It's so terrific to have such great creative opportunities in our small, rural libraries.' 'Awesome class, became more confident with my artistic skills.' 'Did something I've never done before.' 'It makes me want to create more things and be open to making art even if not perfect.' 'I had never done anything like this before, so learned a new skill and it was relaxing.' 'This was one of my favorite classes I've taken from the library!' Performers for children: 'The children were engaged and enjoyed all of the participation opportunities.' 'We liked it. [Child name] loves music and dancing.' 'Kids sang, waved, and danced.' 'Kids loved it!' 'Great experience for my granddaughter. Adventure!' 'Kids loved it and got to participate.' 'Got my kids interested in non-screen activities.' 'Encouragement to read!' 'Very funny for both children and adults.' 'Brought laughter and joy to all.' Author visits/history presentations: 'Very interesting; I learned about the history of [the] area and how to have a book published.' 'I've read the book and enjoyed meeting and getting to know [the] author.' 'Good to meet a delightful author/singer.' 'Good speaker with good information.' '[Learned] historical information about Abercrombie trail.' 'This is Minnesota history come to life.' 'Learned to welcome refugees and new Americans.' 'Meeting and learning from an admired author was fulfilling.' 'One of the best library programs yet!' 'I didn't live in Minnesota until I was 13. I didn't study Minnesota history. I always appreciate whatever I learn.' 'Was fascinated to learn how the author searched his historical books and came up with the ideas for the next book. He was an excellent, knowledgeable, and engaging speaker.' 'Learned a lot--too much to mention one thing!' Music: 'Great music, light comedy, good harmony. Warms the soul.' 'These are wonderful for our community!' 'I love and appreciate music and vocal talent and composition. Thank you! So much for a wonderful evening.' 'It's awesome to be able to see such terrific cultural events in our rural areas. Thanks!' 'I enjoyed the music and learning a little more about another culture's folk music.' 'Good to hear songs you haven't heard for a while.' 'I haven't been to a concert in a long time. It was very enjoyable.' 'Very enjoyable variety of music--fun evening!' '[Heard] musical instruments from the Andes.'