As we approach winter you might be considering learning something new, possibly a new hobby, or spending more time doing something that inspires you.I always find it rewarding to sit down at the piano and learn a new song. If not playing the piano, then making a new craft is always a fun hobby. We have many resources at the library which can help guide your discovery in the arts.
The Bartholomew County Public Library can help with your exploration.
If your interests are in music check out Artist Works. This is an online music learning education platform which can be found at www.mybcpl.org under resources. Artist Works allows patrons to take a wide variety of video lessons in everything from ukulele to jazz piano. Lessons are for those just beginning and progressing to advanced levels.
Music has always been one of my personal passions. It is so exciting that Jim Gill will be presenting a virtual concert running from Dec. 7-9. Some of you may have enjoyed his concert two years ago at The Commons. We are thrilled that he is able to perform once again for the community.
Gill is a musician, author, and, perhaps most importantly, a child development specialist. His recordings and his picture books with musical themes have received honors and awards from, among other organizations, the American Library Association. Jim completed his graduate studies in child development at the Erikson Institute of Chicago with a special emphasis on the study of play. For this reason, each of Jim’s recordings and books is created as an opportunity for playful interactions between a child and a caring adult.
If you would like to become more familiar with his songs, the library has some of Gill’s CDs available for checkout. His songs will not only engage the young but involve the entire household. Be prepared to dance and be a little bit silly during this energetic concert.
If you enjoy arts and crafts, the library has a lot to offer.
You can view many virtual art programs for both adults and children by visiting youtube.com/mybcpl. We have found that our “take and make” crafts are very popular among our patrons.
During the month of December, there will be some special “Crafts Around the World” available for children. We are so excited that some of our community partners will be contributing to this take and make program for our young patrons. Family School Partners, Columbus Accueil, CAMEO, and the 2020 CYD Youth Ambassadors will each be selecting a country along with materials and directions for fifty craft kits.
If your child would like a kit visit our events page and register by Dec. 6. Once registered you may pick up your kits at the children’s desk on Dec. 9-12.
Visit our website at www.mybcpl.org to learn more about the programs and resources we have to offer in the arts.
Kelly Kennedy is the youth and family engagement librarian at the Bartholomew County Public Library and can be reached at [email protected].
