by Beth Totten
In late April and early May, many area residents are planning and planting their gardens. Many of us start our seedlings inside and then once the nights are warmer, we plant our gardens. Hopefully, many local folks have been able to borrow their seeds from our Seed Exchange at the library. There are still seeds available if you haven’t had a chance to do so yet. The Canastota Public Library is a free seed exchange site committed to increasing the capacity of our community to eat wholesome foods. Our seeds are non-genetically modified seeds and many are heirloom seeds.
Additionally, beginning Monday, May 9, we will hold our Annual Plant Exchange. Bring your seedlings, divisions, tubers, plants or bulbs to exchange and/or share with others. Our Plant Exchange will be located near our Main Entrance of the library. Stop by that day or soon after for the best selection of our newest seedlings and plants.
Get your bike ready for the season with our “Bike Basics and Beyond Workshop” with David Pratt. This workshop will be held Wednesday, May 18, at 7 p.m. on the second floor of the library. In this course, you will learn what bicycle is right for you, how to tune up your bike, how to correctly ride in traffic and how to use the gears. Bike Basics and Beyond is for anyone who plans to ride a bike this spring and summer!
David Pratt has a wealth of bike knowledge. He started riding bikes at age 8. His first solo journey took him across his yard and sidewalk and directly into a No Parking sign. He has worked tirelessly on mastering this vehicle and was even employed by a bike shop. Currently, Pratt is the owner of four bikes.
The Perra Comings Art Sale will continue for the month of May. Many of you have already had an opportunity to stop by and see the beautiful work of the late Perra Comings here at the library. On Saturday, May 7 from 2 to 3 p.m., we will host a Family Reception where you can meet Perra’s family in the Lawson Room.
On Tuesday, May 31, at 1 p.m., the Book Chat will meet to discuss “The Inheritance of Loss” by Kiran Desai. This is a book which about the rigid class system that still exists in India today.
We love to hear from our patrons. If you have ideas for classes and workshops you would like us to offer, please let us know.