By Kathryn Johnson
Calling all picture book lovers. Our seasonal gift book program has started and will run through Dec. 2. Young patrons are encouraged to select a wrapped book, check it out, unwrap it and enjoy it at home. After reading the book, simply return it to the library and check out another one.
On Saturday, Jan. 5, we will be making tote bags out of recycled T-shirts as part of our Handmade @ the Library craft series. Interestingly, this simple but utilitarian craft requires no sewing or special skills. This program is free, but we ask that you please bring a T-shirt that you don’t mind repurposing. Please register at sandiego.librarymarket.com.
We will be hosting another popular Zentangle class on Jan. 11 at 2:30 p.m. Get a head start on your Valentine’s Day by making this Valentine’s Day Surprise. For those of you who may not know about Zentangle, it is simple method of creating unique designs with repetitive patterns. It is well known for being relaxing and increasing a sense of personal well-being.
The wonderful Liz Gary will return for another vegan cooking demonstration in January. Just in time for the chilly winter months, Liz will make and share delicious winter soups and vegan grilled cheese sandwiches. Everyone is welcome to join us for this delicious event on Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 6 p.m.
This month the library is partnering with Jersey Mike’s and our new Allied Community Garden to raise funding so that more plots can be constructed for interested individuals. On Friday, Dec. 21 and Saturday, Dec. 22, 20 percent of your purchase at Jersey Mike’s will go to our wonderful garden. Please be sure to pick up a mini flyer at the library before you head over to Jersey Mike’s.
In early 2019, Allied Gardens will be welcoming new residents into the community at the Zephyr housing complex for homeless veterans. In partnership with the Allied Gardens Community Council, the library will be collecting items for our new neighbors as part of a “Welcome Home” goods drive. The new residents will need a variety of items ranging from cleaning supplies to kitchenware. Donations will be accepted through the end of January.
We have a lovely new display of Fiestaware and Pez dispensers from our very own volunteer Ellen. The Pez display is sure to teach you something new about this candy that came into being in 1927. Learn how Pez got its name, some of the more unique flavors they have had such as chlorophyll, and exactly when and why they added feet. Items will be on display through the end of December.
Upcoming closures: All San Diego Public Libraries will be closed on Tuesday, Dec. 25 and Tuesday, Jan. 1. We will remain open for our regular hours on all other days during the holiday season.
Speaking of the holidays, myself and the entire staff of the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library would like to extend a very warm happy holidays to all our patrons and readers! We greatly appreciate your support, enthusiasm for the library and continued patronage in the coming year.
—Kathryn Johnson is managing librarian of the Allied Gardens/Benjamin Branch Library.
