McGregor Library plans activities centered around The Polar Express
From now until Jan. 15, the McGregor Public Library is offering a series of activities centered around the classic children’s book The Polar Express. Here, children’s librarian Luana Stiemke shows off the props kids can use to take Polar Express photos. (Photos by Audrey Posten)
Kids can participate in a Polar Express book walk and check out the books at the library. They can also take home an activity to make their own train treat.
By Audrey Posten, Times-Register
Hop aboard the Polar Express! From now until Jan. 15, the McGregor Public Library is offering a series of activities centered around the classic children’s book that, in 2004, was also made into an animated film.
Children’s librarian Luana Stiemke said the idea started when staff decorated the library’s tree for McGregor’s annual Festival of Trees in a Polar Express theme. She was also encouraged by the success of Halloween week activities, where, instead of a large group event, kids could visit the library on their own time to play games and win treats.
“So I wanted to do something similar over the holiday break,” she said.
When kids visit the library, they’ll start by signing in on the passenger list blackboard, then they can complete a book walk, walking around the library with The Polar Express book. Props will also be available to take Polar Express photos.
“There’s a take home activity for kids to make their own train treat,” Stiemke added.
If kids are feeling extra crafty, they can help build a Polar Express town too.
Most exciting of all, though, is the opportunity to check out the library’s books.
“So many good, new books have come in,” said Stiemke.
Kids are welcome to visit the library individually, or in a family group. The McGregor Public Library is open Mondays and Wednesdays from noon to 7 p.m.; Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 5 p.m.; and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The library will close at 2:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and be closed New Year’s Day.
“We hope this is a fun thing kids can try since we can’t all get together,” Stiemke said.
