One of the highlights of my work week is organizing the weekly gathering of handicrafters that meets at the library on Friday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon. These talented individuals bring knitting, crocheting, tatting, sewing or whatever project they are currently working on or simply chat and share creative tips. When the pandemic closed our building we quickly moved the group online, garnering national attention from the American Library Association for our rapid response to changes in library services. We also gained new members from other parts of the country.

As we continue to shift services we needed a creative way to blend online and in-person activities. Now we use an Owl. The Owl is a special camera that looks like it’s namesake, as it films, it swivels it’s head to follow conversations happening in our community room. This allows us to host in-person and virtual meetings together. And, it allows our knitters to get back together and still include our friends from other places.

Recently, one of our knitters was working on the final stages of a beautiful rosey toned sweater, the shade was absolutely perfect. She explained the color because she was a “spring.” Years ago it was not uncommon to be invited to a party where a color specialist would work individually with party goers to determine which colors worked with their hair color and skin tone. It was referred to as “having your colors done” and your palate would be a season, summer, fall, winter or spring.

That friendly discussion with the knitters led to an idea for a library program and McArthur Library is going retro! Now is the time for you to get your colors done. On Tuesday, March 1 at 6:30 p.m., Julie Cunningham, a professional color analyst will present a virtual talk on selecting your best colors. Julie has been helping women present their best, most professional self since 1996. She will help clients select make-up, accessories and the best clothing styles and color for their individuality and personality.

Please join us for this free online presentation. A link for the registration can be found on McArthur Library’s website at www.mcarthurlibrary.org. Just click on the picture. As always you can call me at the library for more information. Melanie Coombs207-284-4181 or mtcoombs@mcarthurlibrary.org.