Library Hosts Holiday Toy Swap and Festive Events for All Ages

The Newton Public Library is gearing up for a series of festive events this holiday season, including a much-anticipated Holiday Toy Swap on December 8, 2023. This initiative allows families to trade gently used children’s toys, making room for new gifts just in time for the holidays.

To participate in the toy swap, families can drop off toys their children have outgrown between December 1 and December 6 at the library. For each toy donated, participants will receive a ticket, with a maximum of ten tickets available. On the day of the swap, attendees can exchange their tickets for “new-to-you” toys, ensuring that everyone can find something special for the holidays. The library encourages donations to be clean and in good condition, but will not accept stuffed animals or fabric toys.

In addition to the toy swap, the library is hosting several other holiday-themed events. A Holiday Photo Booth will be available from November 17 through December 31, allowing visitors to capture festive moments. Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras to this pop-up booth, with no registration required.

For those with a passion for true crime, the Gory Stories Book Club will meet on December 2, 2023. Participants are invited to bring their lunch and discuss the monthly selection, which for December is The Cadaver King and the Country Dentist by Radley Balko. Copies of the book can be collected at the library’s information desk.

On December 11, children will have the chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus from 17:00 to 19:00. Families can take their own pictures with the festive couple in a designated photo area set up within the library.

The library will have a late opening on December 12 due to a staff event, resuming public hours at 13:00.

Looking ahead to early 2024, the library is excited to announce its Tiny Art Show & Fundraiser Silent Auction. Participants can pick up a 4-inch by 4-inch canvas for a $1 deposit starting December 15. Artists can create their mini masterpieces at home and return them by February 9 to be included in the exhibition and auction, which will run from February 12 to February 26. The proceeds from the auction will support library projects and programs for all ages.

These events highlight the library’s commitment to community engagement and family-friendly activities during the holiday season. For further inquiries, individuals may contact Public Services Librarian Becca Klein at 641-792-4108.