With a chilly weather forecast dampening the week, Moose Jaw Public Library has a few upcoming opportunities to get out of the house and warm up with some social interaction.
The week begins with a weekly meet-up of Bel Coro, an a capella women’s choir who practices with director Wanda Reid every Monday night at 7 p.m. The group will once again gather on Jan. 13, and welcomes new singers of any experience level.
On Jan. 15, teens are invited to join Anime Nation at 6:30 p.m., a monthly screening that features a new anime each month. Participants have a chance to talk about their favourite anime and enjoy authentic Japanese snacks from a Tokyo Treat Snack Box subscription.
Also at 6:30 p.m., the Magic: The Gathering meeting will also be taking place. The monthly session welcomes both new and experienced players of the fantasy card game for an evening of battle and strategy.
At 7 p.m., the Moose Jaw Chinese Association will also be returning with a session of Tai Chi, a Chinese martial art that focuses on breath and movement. Due to the weather, the ongoing session will move inside the library for now. Those attending should wear comfortable clothing and footwear.
Jan. 16 kicks off the Family Literacy Day program at MJPL, which will continue until the end of the month. Families are invited to bring their kids to the children’s department and make their own books and bookmarks in a self-guided activity.
At 12 p.m., the weekly meditation session will welcome attendees to embrace stillness and search for their inner peace over the noon hour.
At 2:30 p.m., the library will host an adult colouring session that they have paired with tea and snacks to warm up with — a chance to embrace the mental health benefits that colouring can offer alongside some low-effort social interaction. All materials will be provided, although everyone is welcome to bring their own supplies if desired.
And at 6 p.m., the Moose Jaw Scottish Country Dancing group will continue their weekly meetings upstairs, practicing the traditional style of social dancing. The club welcomes those interested to give the dance style a try and to consider joining the club on a more regular basis.
All library programs are free, and head librarian Gwen Fisher encourages people to consider braving the freezing outdoors to stop in at the library’s programs.
“It's also an opportunity to check out some new books too — get your library materials to cozy in for the chilly weather and have an opportunity to visit a little bit as well,” said Fisher.
If experiencing the cold is not on the to-do list this week, Fisher also reminds folks that the public library has a number of online resources available without ever stepping foot outside.
“You don't even need to leave your house to use the library. [Digital resources] are always an option, and you can always call the library to find out more,” said Fisher. “You can read at home, watch films at home, listen to audiobooks at home, whatever floats your boat.”
For more information on programming, call the Moose Jaw Public Library at 1 (306) 682-2787 or check their website.
