By Michelle Bennett-Copeland
Weeding (throwing away?) books at the library has always been a bittersweet process. Those who are aware of what goes into maintaining a library’s collection understand the many benefits of weeding and appreciate the need for those tough decisions.
However…during the 2022 holiday season, Fayette County Public Library staff decided to weed with an added twist by turning books into treasure. Several books that were destined for their final resting place (AKA the dumpster) became beautiful artwork displayed throughout the library as door decorations and beautiful pieces on mantles and display cases. The response was overwhelming as patrons oohed and aahed over the wonderful items placed throughout the library during the holiday season!
The big question heard by staff daily was, “How were these creations made?” Patrons’ wide-eyed looks were a delight to see as the staff explained how these crafty creations materialized!
The three names that came up repeatedly during that holiday season were: Irene, Allie, and Emma, the library’s lead crafters. When wreaths made from books became door decorations for the county’s holiday contest, patrons could not believe the spectacle of what they saw! In addition to the holiday door wreaths, artwork made from folded book pages was introduced to patrons.
This DIY craft developed into a class/instructional event. Our patrons wanted to learn how to cut, count, and fold these weeded book pages into stunning masterpieces. And they did just that! These classes have produced one beautiful craft creation after the other. Suddenly, the Crafting Club was born. This club is led by Irene, Allie, and Emma, who are responsible for creating crafty ideas and sharing them with the community.
The Fayette County Public Library started its first Lunch-N-Learn Crafting Club in October 2023! The crafting club is scheduled to meet every third Wednesday at 12:00 noon. To register, all interested persons (adults only) should call or email: elaster@fayettecountyga.gov or call 770-461-8841.
To learn more about the Fayette County Public Library, go to https://fayettecountyga.gov/public_library.