Library gets crafty for the holiday season

MILLERTON — They seem like ordinary citizens, going about their everyday activities while plying their talents behind closed door. Then once a year, their inner Elves emerge, and as if by magic the fruits of their labors appear at the NorthEast-Millerton Library Annex. There for one special day the building becomes Santa’s North East Pole as it houses the annual Holiday Craft Fair. 

The huge community room, often used for events such as concerts, movies, speakers and even elections, is filled with good cheer as neighbors visit with neighbors while they shop for special gifts not to be found in any mall nor purchased with a click on any internet site.  

The offerings for sale are as unique and varied as the dozens of donors who generously share their handmade goods — all to the benefit of the library. From some, it’s stashes of hats, scarves and baby blankets; from others, Christmas wreaths and home-baked doggie treats; from wood workers, unique creations anyone would love to see under a Christmas tree. There are jams and jellies, jewelry, clothing for babies and children, soft toys and tiny dolls, mittens and socks, paintings and photos — anything and everything that crafters and artisans can create. 

Even John Roccanova, busy with creations for his own Kenya fundraiser at the Irondale Schoolhouse held this weekend and next, generously crafted a wooden child’s wagon and blocks.  

They do it because, as Sue Marling — perennial donor of dozens of much sought-after specialty items — said, “I just love to sew. I love to share. And it’s wonderful to support the library.” 

This year, in order to make gifts more meaningful, shoppers will be given holiday tags that will let the recipient know that the gifts bring with them support for the library and all the programs it provides for patrons of all ages throughout the community. 

In addition to finding gifts for friends and families, shoppers will also have the opportunity to “Spread the Warmth,” by purchasing items that can then be donated to the Adopt-a-Family program. 

The fair, which will also include a number of raffle items from local merchants, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Annex at 28 Century Blvd. Any handmade items, including baked goods, may still be donated at the library at 75 Main St. or during the fair.