TPL’s November activity calendar caters to a variety of interests

By Cal Braid
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Taber Public Library’s (TPL) November calendar features a variety of activities for different age groups and interests. On Nov. 8, the library held their Senior Speaker Series and focused on the topic of dementia and communication. Program coordinator Dawn Kondas said depending on the topic, she partners with Family Community Support Services’ seniors coordinator to find a speaker for each event.

The library’s Lego Club continued on Nov. 8, and it’s an opportunity for school-aged children to play and build using the library’s Lego pieces. Their creations are then put on display until the following week, and the Club continues each Wednesday of the month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

On the same day, the library’s Circle Jam resumed from 6 – 7 p.m. For those who play an instrument or sing, the Jam is a chance for individuals to join a group of musicians and share their talents. Those who don’t play or sing are also welcome to hum along and enjoy the evening. Participants are asked to bring a song or two that they would like to play.

On Nov. 15, the Kiwanis hand bell choir will hold an open practice from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Kiwanis is a non-profit service club that aims to improve the lives of children. 

“This is only the first practice they’ve had since pre-COVID,” Kondas said. “It’s open to the public. I think people realize (the choir) are not professionals, but it’s still fun to come listen to.” 

On Nov. 17 and 18, the Christmas Jingle Craft Sale and Silent Auction will be open at the Taber Community Center. The sale runs Friday, Nov. 17, 4 – 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Eagle Spirit Nest Craft Day will also be held on Nov. 18 from 10 – 11 a.m., and the group will be crafting medicine bags. The medicine bag has indigenous roots, and Kondas said, “Traditionally, when you’re out on the land and come across some sage, and you use that for smudging, then you take what you need and put it in your pouch and you carry on.” There are only 15 spots available so sign up early by calling or visiting the library.

Later that same day (Nov. 18), a Ukulele Jam is scheduled from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the library. It’s open for all to come play or just listen. Ukuleles will be available for folks to try their hand at strumming.

Trivia Night at the Taber Legion happens Nov. 23 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. The event will be held downstairs, and children are welcome. “It’s a program that we do once every two months,” said Kondas. Participants can come as a team or individual, and small prizes can be won. The following day (Nov. 24), the library will host Coffee with Council from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., an event that runs four times per year, and is a perfect opportunity to get one-on-one with council members. Attendees can expect an open house for the first hour and the regular program after that. Community members can bring questions, comments or concerns before the Town’s elected officials.

A Children’s Only Market on Nov. 25 will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the back room of the library. Locals are encouraged to come support these teens and preteens in their business endeavours and purchase from them. There are a variety of crafts and baked goods for sale.

To wrap it up, on Nov. 29, the library will feature a Duo Author Talk with Bianca Rowena and Christopher Bice in the program room. The talk goes from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Bianca Rowena will be reading from her newest book called ‘A Fort Steele Christmas’ and Christopher Bice will be reading some poetry from his book ‘Escaping the Darkness: Running from my Dreams.’ Both authors are from southern Alberta. “They’re on a little bit of a tour of five or six libraries, and we’re the last stop,” Kondas explained.

For those with free time or school-aged kids on their hands, the public library is always a great option for learning and enjoyment. Visit http://www.taberlibrary.ca