Thorhild Library

By Brandie Majeau

              “Covid is done and it’s great to be getting back to normal.”  One of the members of the Friends of Thorhild Library Society commented.  On March 15^th Thorhild library held its AGM and general meeting.  This year marks the 30^th anniversary of Friends of Thorhild Library Society and next year marks the 40^th anniversary of the Thorhild Library.  Members of both groups are very excited to be able to host a variety of events and programs in the upcoming year.  All members in attendance at the meeting expressed a need for extra hands for these plans and encourage people looking for a low commitment volunteer opportunity to stop by the library and inquire about becoming a member.

              Kathy Passay, librarian of Thorhild Library, looks forward to a year where so many activities can be resumed.  She is currently working with Thorhild Family Resource Coordinator on educational programming such as the current monthly event, Coffee Talk.  She also expressed the demand in the community for adult learning.  A large portion of her times goes to assisting individuals with technical needs like computer/tablet/phone use, printing, job applications and resumes.  Kathy also created a monthly mobile library that visits the Thorhild Senior’s Home.  She packs up large print books, many with themes requested by residents, as well as movie and TV series DVDs and takes them directly to the residents to ensure they have access to library services even when it is not convenient for them to get to the library itself.

              Kathy shared a value statement from Northern Lights Library System that showed in 2021 the libraries belonging to Thorhild County had a circulation value of 529.6K.  “People are using the libraries!” stated one Friends member in attendance.  “You can see the growth.”  Libraries in general are a huge savings to their patrons.  In 2021 the average book cost to buyers was about $16-$23.  If you are an avid reader, the cost savings by using your local libraries are phenomenal.

              When asked about the future of the upcoming year, Kathy expressed a desire to involve the seniors and children of the community more.  She has an image of mixing the generations, however that looks is yet to be determined but something she looks forward to.  Kathy stated her concern at the thought that most senior’s have been either cooped up or isolated after these past long years and hopes to play a part in changing that.  There is also talk of keeping old favorite events, like the plant exchange fundraiser, bringing back programs that were once enjoyed but haven’t been run in several years and creating new events.  Once a summer student is available to her, she is excited to create even more programs that bring back the kid’s stuff.  Reading programs have been done at home, craft days have been postponed or featured as take home kits, there is excitement that Thorhild Library can open its doors wide once again to invite a little bit of chaos and fun between their quiet walls.