Donations needed for Holiday Craft Fair

MILLERTON — With the coming of autumn, it’s a perfect time for crafters of all varieties to start to plan new projects, which means it’s also a great time to think about creating something special for the  NorthEast-Millerton Library Holiday Craft Fair.

Library Director Rhiannon Leo-Jameson notes that because the event features only hand crafted items donated for the sale, no commercial vendors need be paid, so every cent that comes in contributes to the support of the library and its myriad of programs. 

The fair also provides a second way to aid the community since shoppers will once again have the opportunity to purchase and leave behind items that will then be distributed to nonprofits including Adopt-a-Family and local shelters.

Originally selling only a small variety of items created by members of the library’s knitting group, over the past eight years the inventory has expanded. Leo-Jameson says there are always plenty of warm items for young and old from sweaters to hats, mittens and scarves, which are still in demand. But she added, “I am delighted to see people also donate a wonderful variety of items. We’ve had fabulous bird houses, woodworking, jewelry, glass, sculptures, art work, photography, toys and stuffed animals — even cat toys and homemade dog treats.”

Baked and other homemade goodies are aways welcome for both the Craft Fair and the food sale the library will sponsor during the coming November election. 

“It will be a busy month,” said Leo-Jameson.

With the fair still more than a month away, scheduled for the Saturday before Thanksgiving, Nov. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Leo-Jameson is happy to note, “We’ve  already started receiving donations. The most unusual thing so far this year is a fidget cozy with various items attached both outside and in for tactile play.” 

As the tradition has grown, Leo-Jameson is pleased to see that even crafters who have moved out of the area have continued to donate year after year.

In addition to hoping for craft items, the library will soon begin to solicit items from local businesses for inclusion in the fair’s raffle. 

She said that while the fair is an important money maker and a great place to shop, the event itself is “Just fun. It is heart warming to see so many people from the community come and connect with old friends as they run into neighbors and have a chat. It’s a great social event.”  

The items, which are tax deductible, may be left at the library during regular hours. For more information, call the library at 518-789-3340. The library is at 75 Main St.