Libraries offer so much for all ages to read and learn and the experiences reach beyond the pages of the books.
The Maidstone Library spent Saskatchewan Library Week offering opportunities to try something new.
Tuesday yoga teacher Shannon Smith spent some time talking about yoga and demonstrating some of the common poses while a small group followed along stretching and breathing through the exercises.
The library was even busier Wednesday as artist Audrey Fine Day stopped in to talk about her work and lead a miniature high top moccasin making workshop. She was born at Sweet Grass First Nation and currently lives and creates art at Poundmaker First Nation.
Fine Day's work has been on display in the library in celebration of Culture Days and people were interested to hear her speak about tumbling rocks and using found objects in her art.
"I use mirrors in my art for reflecting, so we can learn to love ourselves more," she said as she told the stories behind some of the multi-media painting on display.
Students from Maidstone High School along with a staff member enjoyed spending the afternoon cutting out the leather and sewing the tiny pieces together showing patience in the fine details of the task. Participants worked on doll-sized moccasins and all had finished one before the workshop was over.
The smell of leather brought back memories for some of the participants and as they pulled the special three-sided needles through the sturdy material they also learned how to use thimbles. It was work to be proud of and the group appreciated the inspiration of the artist.
Wednesday evening the library was filled with children who were "Crazy for Cupcakes." The cupcake craze has brought forth the publishing of many interesting books about decorating and using simple materials to create the sweet confections.
Participants listened to a couple of stories about cupcakes and muffins, did some colouring and took turns digging into the bags and bags of candy to create copies from the books on hand or to create original designs.
There were many smiles and the odd twinkle in an eye as a stray sweet was popped into a mouth.
Saskatchewan Library Week activities in Maidstone brought people into the library who aren't regular patrons showing off a place where there is much more to offer than just the wonderful world of words.
