Open House at Main Library

The Tuscarawas County Public Library’s Main Library is kicking off the holiday season with its annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, November 15th from 11:00AM – 2:00PM.

“This is an event for the entire family,” said Children’s Services Manager Mary Smrek. “Activities and programs are planned for all ages.”

Come early for a sugar-free cooking demo with Bev Keller and Michelle Specht at 10:30 AM. Stay to meet a live reindeer, enjoy kids’ crafts and games, and purchase gifts from vendors that include Cozy Cat Crafted, Blue Bird Pottery, and The Opal Collection. New Philadelphia native Linda Reese will also feature her family cookbook Season Everything with Love and offer a sample from it to share and autographs. At 1:00 PM, join Rebecca Gromley from the OSU Extension Office for a gluten-free cooking demo. Participate in the holiday ornament swap where you can use the ticket you received from bringing in your gently used ornaments between November 13th and November 15th. During this event, you can also learn how to tie bows. Enjoy live music, cookies, and take a group photo at the winter-themed photo op.

“Something extra exciting at this year’s Holiday Open House is that the Spirit of Christmas Community Tree will be unveiled and remain on display at the County’s Main Library throughout the holiday season,” said Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell.

The 11-foot tree, made of crocheted granny squares and topped with a crocheted Moravian star, was spearheaded by community members Cathleen Misko and Sherri Perry. Inspired by the work of Pat Boron and a similar tree that was displayed at the New York Public Library, Misko and Perry have taught many to crochet this year and collected hundreds of granny squares to make the tree possible. Nearly 60 community members, both young and old, have contributed to this project.

Two gingerbread house kits will be given away as door prizes. The library will have holiday music, movies, and books to check out.

The event is free, but registration is requested and may be completed on the online event calendar at tusclibrary.org or by calling the Main Library at 330-364-4474. The Main Library is located at 121 Fair Ave NW in New Philadelphia.