Create clay gnomes like these in an upcoming “Gnome for the Holidays” event at the Sugar Creek branch of the Hancock County Public Library.
Submitted photo
Libraries to host holiday programs
GREENFIELD – Several family-friendly holiday programs are coming up at local libraries, including the popular Jingle John animal show.
The “north pole elf” visits New Palestine with his North Pole animals Dec. 18; he will give two shows in Greenfield Dec. 19. The Sugar Creek branch of the Hancock County Public Library is located at 5731 W. U.S. 52, New Palestine; the central branch of the HCPL is at 900 W. McKenzie Road, Greenfield.
Other holiday programs include “Gnome for the Holidays” and a Grinch movie night in New Palestine. The Greenfield branch will host a DIY holiday gifts party for ages 2-5 and an ugly sweater decorating party for school aged children. All ages are welcome Dec. 18 for the “Holiday Time in the City” jazz concert at the Greenfield library. Register for programs at hcplibrary.org or call 317-462-5141 for more information.
In Fortville, the Holly Jolly Holiday Party is set for 9-11 a.m. Dec. 2 at the Fortville Community Center, 400 W. Church St., Fortville. The free event hosted by the Vernon Township Public Library and Fortville Parks Department will feature games, crafts, Santa and a live reindeer.
Kids gift wrapping contest Dec. 2
SHIRLEY – Children are encouraged to “show Santa your skills” in an upcoming gift wrapping contest.
The Shirley Fire Station will host the contest from 4-7:30 p.m. Dec. 2, at the same time the Shirley Christmas Walk takes place in the community. There will be prizes for winners in categories pre-K through second grade; third through eighth grade; and ninth through 12th grade. For updates and details, visit facebook.com/shirleyindiana.
Reading program dogs coming to libraries
HANCOCK COUNTY – Bentley’s Buddies & Friends are coming to local libraries this December to help children read.
The program in which dogs sit next to children to read to is free and open to anyone; no need to sign up. The dogs will be at the Vernon Township Public Library in Fortville from 1:30-2:30 pm. Dec. 16; and at both the Greenfield and New Palestine branches of the Hancock County Public Library from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Dec. 17.
