The Moose Jaw Public Library has opened access to a new online resource for library patrons called Creative Bug, a website meant to bring out the creativity in everyone.
Creative Bug is a hub of crafting tutorial videos and projects, for crafters of all skill types and levels. The site offers a wide range of craft ideas, with a number of different instructors.
There’s a category for almost every kind of do-it-yourself artistic itch — like handmade wall art, decorative journals, printed stationery, and woven rugs, to name a few.
There are how-to videos for every level of knowledge, from basic skills like mixing paint or different crochet stitches, to more complicated projects like sewing your own jacket or trying different types of bookbinding.
Each tutorial is broken down into steps to make it easier to follow and instruction is video-based, with an option to read the dialogue as a transcript, for accessibility.
Also included on each project page is a materials list and a place to jot down your own notes, as well as a discussion with the instructor and other users and a gallery of photos from users.
Users can save videos to their watchlist and look back on videos in their recently watched tab. Users are also able to add their own finished projects to the photo gallery.
Creative Bug offers projects in all kinds of categories, from quilting to cake decorating to birthday crafts, all of which are entirely free. The site also has daily challenges for crafters who are feeling inspired. There’s even a pattern library for crocheters and knitters to scroll through for their next project.
All of Creative Bug’s content is free of copyright, and library users have unlimited access to the site’s amenities through the Public Library.
“A Sunday school teacher could use it, the classroom teacher can use it, the Scout Guide leader can use it, a daycare provider can use it without there being any repercussions, as far as playing it in public,” said Keri Hennefent, from MJPL.
Creative Bug is just another addition to the many online resources offered through the Public Library to patrons for free, including the new streaming service Kanopy and many others.
The Palliser Library Region is currently the only library region in Saskatchewan with access to Creative Bug, as the site has only recently expanded into Canada — making Moose Jaw a trailblazer in offering the service.
“There isn't very many libraries in Canada using it yet,” said Hennefent. “There's so much great stuff. It's like a rabbit hole.”
All library patrons need to sign up for any of the library’s online resources is an active library card and PIN, and registration can be done at home or at the computer station at the Public Library.
For those who don’t have a library card, you can apply for one at the front desk of the Moose Jaw Public Library, at no cost.
The front desk can also help anyone with any questions about the online resources available, either by stopping by or calling 1 (306) 692-2787.
