March is National Creativity Month at your local library

March is National Creativity Month and your library is a great place to get creative.

You can access a world of creativity with your library card, including the makerspace, maker kits, programs as well as other materials and resources.

The Creation Station Makerspace at the main library is your go-to community space for working on projects and accessing a variety of equipment. Stop in and you will see such crafty machines as a Cricut Maker 3, Heat Presses, Laminator, Sewing Machines, Sizzix, and so much more! Some equipment may require training before use, please contact staff at 325-676-6025 for information.

One of the most popular of the lot is the Cricut.

If you are new to the world of Cricut, we have several titles you might find useful. This include “Cricut Design Space for Beginners” by Cricut Maker (via hoopla), “The Unofficial Book of Cricut Crafts: The Ultimate Guide to Your Electric Cutting Machine” by Crystal Allen and “Cricut Project Ideas: The Latest Complete Guide with Over 200 Project Ideas for Cricut Maker, Explore Air 2 and Design Space” by Ellie Miller.

Cricut is available at the Abilene Public Library.
Cricut is available at the Abilene Public Library.

Maker Kits provide grab-and-go access to new hobbies and skills you can learn in the comfort of your home. Each kit focuses on a specific craft, from cake decorating to paper quilling. Located in the basement of the Main Library, each kit checks out for 3 weeks. Kits contain everything you will need to get started except consumables such as floss and yarn.

Our staff also provides in-house Creative Programs at the downtown library.

  • Wednesday: Crafty DIY: Letter Tile Coasters, a fun crafting program for adults.

  • Thursday: Children and their families are invited to a reading of “The Grouchy Ladybug” by Eric Carle, followed by a super cute ladybug craft.

  • Saturday: Teen fans of the MCU will want to stop by at 4 pm for Teen Crafternoon: Resin Fandom Charms.

  • March 17: Last, but not least, we will celebrate St. Patty’s Day by making Fizzing Leprechaun Pots at 4pm. This STEAM program for school-age youth proves science can be fun.

Creative expression is fun but also beneficial. It can improve mood, self-esteem as well as cognitive function. Plus it can be very satisfying holding that finished item to display, wear or give as a gift. Let the Abilene Public Library help point you toward a craft that you will hopefully both enjoy and find fulfilling.

This article originally appeared on Abilene Reporter-News: March is National Creativity Month at your local library