Library Has Food for the Holidays and a Giving Tree

Edith Wheeler Memorial Library employees may appear more laid back this week, wearing casual clothes such as jeans, rather than their typical work attire. It's all for a good cause. Lorna Rhyins, adult and teen services librarian, said those who bring in donations for the Monroe Food Pantry will be allowed to dress down during the week after Thanksgiving.

Rhyins has spoken to Monroe Social Services Dir. Barbara Yeager about the need for the pantry to re-stock its shelves for families in need.

"Barbara Yeager said they're struggling to keep up with the economy," Rhyins said. "More and more people are looking for support there. There's a concerted effort here at the library for people to bring in donations."

Non-perishable food donations may also be left in a box near Edith Wheeler Memorial Library's entrance.

The effort will continue right into December. On Dec. 6, the Teen Advisory Board will have a bake sale from 4 to 8 p.m. to benefit the food pantry.

Rhyins said the sale will provide snacks during Movie Night. That evening, "The Help," will play at 7 o'clock.

A Giving Tree

Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are coming, but those hurt by the faltering economy will have a hard time buying gifts for their loved ones this year. Edith Wheeler Memorial Library plans to help host families to enjoy the holidays.

Children will make simple ornaments for the Giving Tree by the library's front desk during the Sugar Plumbs & Snowflakes Party in the Children's Library on Dec. 3 from 1 to 3 p.m. The event will be held in the Ehlers Meeting Room.

Libby Meuller, the children's librarian, said library patrons can take an ornament from the Giving Tree, which has a card with a person's age, gender and desired holiday gift. After buying the gift, the generous visitor brings it to the library.

A wide variety of gifts are needed, but children's ornaments will focus on food. Meuller said each will feature a photo of a food donation, such as brown rice. Children in bring in a food donation on Dec. 3 can put an ornament on the tree.