Local libraries to host programs for all ages
By Barb Pert Templeton
The St. Clair County Library System, which includes branches from Algonac to Capac, will embrace Valentine’s Day by offering nearly two dozen programs over the next few weeks.
One of the most popular events will likely be the chocolate tasting programs being offered for kids, teens and adults.
Blue Water Healthy Living caught up with St. Clair County Library System Community Relations and Friend Development Coordinator Michael Mercatante to pose some questions about the upcoming programs.
Chocolate tasting events are expected to be a popular program offered at local libraries next month.
This Q and A is followed by a list with some of the program names, locations, dates and times.
Blue Water Healthy Living: Do all libraries in the system host the chocolate tasting event?
Michael Mercatante: “All-branch” programs such are created and put on by our system-wide programming staff that is based out of the Main Library. The intention is that their programs are more STEAM-based as well as fun. Not all of these programs occur at the branches in the same month but all branches will have them.
BWHL: How did you come up with the idea for a chocolate tasting? Will this be handled differently depending on the age group?
Mercatante: About a year ago, the library did a chocolate tasting program for adults that was very well received. There was a demand to bring this program back and we decided to expand it to all age groups. Each age group gets a different variety of chocolates to sample and review.
BWHL: Can you briefly describe how the process for tasting will work – in particular for the kids’ sessions? (Sure some parents are worried about germs ect..:))
Mercatante: In general, the chocolate is pre-sorted in individual servings and placed in separate containers. So only the individual tasting the chocolate will be handling it. Each chocolate is tasted one-by-one and people are then asked to review what they just ate. It’s a lot of fun.
Children, teens and adults will have the chance to take part in chocolate tasting programs at area libraries in February.
BWHL: Other than the tasting event at most libraries does each branch have the flexibility to host whatever other things – like craft projects and card making – at their locations?
Mercatante: The branch staff are free and encouraged to come up with their own events and have always done so. The system-wide programming approach is relatively new and compliments the events held at each branch. It also expands quality programming availability be making the programs available at all branches. If you miss the program at one branch, you’ll be able to see it on another day.
BWHL: Are these popular programs?
Mercatante: Yes, very much.
BWHL: Does traffic increase at the branches when these “holiday” programs are offered?
Mercatante: It depends on factors like the weather (especially at this time of year) and the type of program but yes, in general, holiday programs are quite popular. Our system-wide programmers as well as our branch library staff can be quite creative.
BWHL: Can all of these programs be registered for online?
Mercatante: Yes. All library programs/events and their registrations can be found at: https://stclaircountylibrary.org/events There is no cost for any library program, ever. One does not need a library card to attend. To learn more including what other branches of the St. Clair Library System will offer for Valentines Day visit the website.
Algonac- Clay Library at 2011 St. Clair River Drive, Algonac
Chocolate Tasting for Teens
Monday, Jan. 29 – 6 to 7 p.m.
Learn the chocolate tasting basics and try a variety of types of chocolate from around the world. Then, put your taste buds to the test and experience the difference between American favorites and their international equivalents. Recommended for ages 12-17. Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
Valentine’s Day Canvas Painting
Tuesday, Feb. 6 @ 3 to 5 p.m.
Join us as we welcome artist Brenda Nummer who will instruct us as we paint a Valentine’s Day theme on canvas. Registration is requested.
Chocolate Tasting for Kids
Monday, Feb. 12 @ 6 to 7 p.m.
Think you know candy? Give your five senses a workout as you sample different chocolate from around the world and decide which you like best. Recommended for ages 5-12.
Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
G-Lynn Campbell Library at 1955 Allen Road in Kimball
Bee My Love
Tuesday, Feb. 6 @ 6 to 7 p.m.
Your child will love making these cute bee valentine’s cards. They can get creative by attaching their own additions, or even making a whole new design if they like. All materials provided.
Ira Township Library at 7013 Meldrum Road, Ira Township
Paper Flower Valentine’s Heart
Tuesday, Feb. 6 @ 6 to 7 p.m.
Create spiral roses out of paper, then arrange them into a heart formation for the perfect Valentine’s Day craft or card! Registration is required.
Marbled Shaving Cream Hearts
Saturday, Feb. 10 @ 11 a.m. to noon
Learn to paint with shaving cream at the Ira Twp. Library. Wear your paint clothes and be ready for some fun.
Chocolate Tasting for Teens
Thursday, March 7 @ 6 to 7 p.m.
Come learn the chocolate tasting basics and try a variety of types of chocolate from around the world. Then, put your taste buds to the test and experience the difference between American favorites and their international equivalents. Recommended for ages 12-17. Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
Marine City Library at 300 S. Parker Street in Marine City
Thursday, Feb. 1 @ 6 p.m.
Crafty Kids Love Coding Bracelets
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with making your own love coding bracelets.
Chocolate Tasting for Kids
Monday, Feb. 5 @ 5 p.m.
Give your five senses a workout as you sample different chocolate from around the world and decide which you like best. Recommended for ages 5-12.
Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
Adult Craft Corner – Heart Button Canvas Art
Monday, Feb. 12 @ 6 to 7 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day as we craft our own heart button love art onto a canvas.
Crafty Kids Tissue Paper Heart Wreath
Thursday, Feb. 15 @ 6 to 7p.m.
Continue celebrating Valentine’s Day by creating your own heart wreath with tissue paper.
Chocolate Tasting for Teens
Monday, March 4 @ 5 to 6 p.m.
Come learn the chocolate tasting basics and try a variety of types of chocolate from around the world. Then, put your taste buds to the test and experience the difference between American favorites and their international equivalents. Recommended for ages 12-17. Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
Marysville Public Library at 1175 Delaware Avenue in Marysville
Teens Valentine Card Fest
Thursday, Feb. 8 @ 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Teens, show some love with one-of-a-kind Valentines! We’ll supply the paper, ideas, ink, and frills for you to send some Valentine thrills.
St. Clair Library at 310 S. Second Street in St. Clair
Chocolate Tasting for Kids
Tuesday, Feb. 6 @ 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Give your five senses a workout as you sample different chocolate from around the world and decide which you like best. Recommended for ages 5-12.
Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
Chocolate Tasting for Teens
Tuesday, Feb. 13 @ 3 to 4 p.m.
Come learn the chocolate tasting basics and try a variety of types of chocolate from around the world. Then, put your taste buds to the test and experience the difference between American favorites and their international equivalents. Recommended for ages 12-17. Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
Chocolate Tasting for Adults
Thursday, Feb. 15 @ 6 to 7 p.m.
Join us to learn the basics principles of chocolate tasting and sample a variety of chocolates from around the world. Rank your favorites and share your thoughts on each delicious offering.
Please note: allergens may be present. Hold harmless form required to participate.
