Transform Your Holidays with Your Library's Hidden Treasures

For the Bookworm: Dive into a Literary Adventure

Often, we get overwhelmed by our towering to-be-read piles. But it's time to set aside those worries and pick up a delightful new book. Explore the Sequim Library and immerse yourself in a world of reading. You can also access free audiobooks, e-books, and Kindle formats through NOLS.org and the Libby app. One staff pick is "How to Age Disgracefully" by Clare Pooley. Follow Lydia as she joins a quirky senior club and uncovers secrets and outrageous schemes to save the community center.

Another great find is "Good Lookin’ Cooking: a Year of Meals" by Dolly Parton and Rachel Parton George. This cookbook is filled with family recipes and heartwarming stories. And here's a bonus: Dolly Parton's Imagination Library offers free books by mail to children from birth to age 5. Learn more at NOLS.org/imagination.

For the Home Chef: Unleash Your Culinary Creativity

Whether you're on a budget or looking to create gourmet dishes, the library has an array of cookbooks and magazines to inspire your next culinary masterpiece. "Good Lookin’ Cookin’: A Year of Meals" by Dolly Parton and Rachel Parton George is a staff favorite. It features delicious family recipes and charming stories. With these resources at your fingertips, you can transform your kitchen into a culinary haven.

For the Movie Buff: Endless Movie Entertainment

Forget about expensive streaming subscriptions and have a movie marathon instead. Borrow DVDs from the library or use your library card to stream movies, documentaries, and TV shows on Hoopla. One staff pick is "Dead Poets Society," which is now celebrating its 35th anniversary. Relive the magic of this classic film with your loved ones.

For the Crafter: Master the Art of Watercolor

Join the library's online workshop on Dec. 9, "Watercolor Holiday Cards and Gift Tags," taught by SilverKite Community Arts. Sign up at NOLS.org/silverkite and access the recordings later. It's a great opportunity to learn a new skill and create beautiful holiday cards and gift tags. And don't forget, "Wicked: the Soundtrack" is available at NOLS branches, adding to the creative atmosphere.

For the Music Aficionado: Discover a Musical World

Borrow a diverse selection of CDs from the library or use Hoopla to download or stream music for free. The staff pick is "Wicked: The Soundtrack" (2024), available via Hoopla or enjoy the original Broadway recording on CD or digitally. Let the music transport you to different worlds and enhance your holiday mood.

For the Caregiver: Entertain Little Ones with Books

Stock up on books to keep the little ones entertained. Reading the same book over and over counts towards the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten reading challenge. "When You Find the Right Rock" by Mary Lyn Ray and illustrator Felicita Sala is a great choice for children ages 3–5 or anyone who loves the magic of a special rock. It's a simple yet delightful way to engage with kids and foster a love for reading.

For the Nature Lover: Explore the Outdoors

Borrow free passes for Olympic National Park and Washington State Parks and embark on outdoor adventures. Discover the beauty of nature with the help of outdoor gear like birding kits and telescopes. Visit NOLS.org/gear to learn more and make the most of your time in nature during the holidays.

For the Savvy Shopper: Make Informed Purchases

Access Consumer Reports at NOLS.org/online-resources and read product reviews to make informed shopping decisions. It's a valuable tool for finding the best products and getting the most out of your money. With this resource at your disposal, you can shop with confidence.