As we draw near to the end of the year, many in our community will turn their focus to celebrations and times of giving. This year, the library will celebrate that spirit of giving in November and December with our initiative “Season of Giving.” Happenings include partnering with local organizations for donation drives, fun programs, and acts of service.
HamCoLove is a local organization striving to end period poverty in Hamilton County. Part of their mission is “to provide necessary period care products to Hamilton County, IN residents.” HEPL will be collecting items from HamCoLove’s wish lists throughout November and December. Wish lists are featured here: Target, Amazon, Walmart.
Please bring donations to any service point at either library location through December 31, 2022. If you would like to donate directly to HamCoLove, they have a Venmo: @HamCoLove. Learn more about this organization at HamCoLove.com.
Support those in need in our community this season by donating unopened boxes of facial tissue as well as new socks, winter hats, and mittens/gloves (in all sizes). Look for donation collection spots at both the Noblesville Library and the Fishers Library throughout November and December. Donated items from the Fishers Library will go to the Delaware Township Trustee’s office for distribution, and donated items from the Noblesville Library will go to the Noblesville Township Trustee’s office for distribution.
Drop-In Activity: Eco-Friendly Gift Bag or Tag | October 31 – November 20
Stop by Ignite to make a gift bag or tag with fabric featuring the winning design from our ‘Pattern’ exhibit. Sew your fabric swatch into a small bag using our sewing machines or by hand. Alternatively, simply embellish with embroidery thread or fabric markers to make a tag. Step-by-step instruction sheets will guide you in utilizing the fabric. Materials will be available in Ignite while supplies last. Ages 8 and up.
Gift Wrapping 101: Adult Virtual Craft | November 10
Perfect some gift wrapping hacks, just in time for the Season of Giving. Most supplies will be provided but you will need your own scissors, ruler, and tape. Class is intended for those age-18 and above.
Season of Giving Meal Packing with IDES | November 30 at Noblesville
It’s the Season of Giving and giving comes in many forms, including acts of service. HEPL is partnering with IDES (International Disaster Emergency Service) to provide an opportunity for community members like you to pack meals that will be sent to refugees overseas, in countries like Ukraine and Poland. We’ll need lots of volunteers so bring your family and friends to make a difference in the lives of others! Registration is requested.
Clay ‘Drop In’: Clay Ornaments | December 4
Drop in to Ignite and try your ‘hand’ at hand building. Hand building is a great way to learn about the properties of clay and its various stages. Instruction displays will facilitate self-exploration on a different topic each time including coil, slab, sculpture, stamping, sgraffito and more. The clay is self-hardening and paintable and patrons will be able to take what they make! Ages 5 and up.
Drop-In Activity: Woven Pet Toys | December 5 – December 18
Stop by Ignite to make a dog or cat toy to donate or give to your own furry friend. Weave together strips of fabric to create a colorful rope. Step-by-step instruction sheets will help you in this self-guided activity. Materials will be available in Ignite while supplies last.
Crafty Teens: Hot Chocolate in a Jar | December 5 at Noblesville and December 7 at Fishers
If you are a teen looking to create a homemade gift this season, join Crafty Teens to create “Hot Chocolate in a Jar.” Decorate your creation with ribbons, tags, and bows to keep for yourself or to give away to celebrate the Season of Giving. All supplies provided. Registration required.
Season of Giving Meal Packing with IDES | December 12 at Fishers
It’s the Season of Giving and giving comes in many forms, including acts of service. HEPL is partnering with IDES (International Disaster Emergency Service) to provide an opportunity for community members like you to pack meals that will be sent to refugees overseas, in countries like Ukraine and Poland. We’ll need lots of volunteers so bring your family and friends to make a difference in the lives of others! Registration is requested.
Maker-in-Residence: Holiday Gift Class | December 14 and December 20
Learn the basics of weaving on a simple frame loom in this class for beginners and complete a gift for someone special or yourself! We’ll cover how to set-up your loom, basic weaving techniques, achieving varied textures and how to finish and display your work. We will create your choice of: coaster set, placemat, woven pendant or wall-hanging. Class includes supplies and a portable 4-6 inch loom to take home! Registration begins two weeks prior to class. For ages 12+ .
Screen Printed Wrapping Paper ‘Drop-in’ | December 17
Here’s your chance to learn how to screen print on paper and create fun wrapping paper for your holiday gift giving! Drop into Ignite and staff will show you how to screen print using vinyl stencils, with 3 stencil designs for you to choose from. Learn how to use this fun kit from our kit library and then come back and make your own designs on t-shirts, sweatshirts, aprons, flags, backpacks, banners, paper, wood, the list goes on and on! For ages 8 and up. While supplies last.
Drop-In Activity: Matisse Trees | December 19 – December 31
Stop by Ignite to create a tree filled winter scene. Using paper cut-outs and templates, piece together a winter wonderland inspired by Henri Matisse’s ‘Cut-Out’ collages. Step-by-step instruction sheets will help you in this self-guided activity. Materials will be available in Ignite while supplies last.
A Meditation on Giving Happiness to Others | December 19
Join us for a virtual talk and guided meditation with Fred May from Kadampa Meditation Center Indianapolis. We give to others for many reasons during this time of year. Perhaps we think of giving material things, but material things do not give real lasting happiness. Giving our attention, time, and care are invaluable gifts that often mean more than giving presents. But, when we do it with the heartfelt wish to bring them happiness, we are truly giving.
To participate in any Season of Giving programs, you may register on our online Calendar of Events. We hope you will celebrate this season of giving with us at HEPL!