Whether it’s singing, baking or crafts, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library is feeling the holiday spirit and looking to share that spirit with its patrons.

Silver Bells and Silver Screens

On Sunday, Dec. 15, the library’s own Adrianna Polito, a trained opera singer, will perform a concert being described as “a cozy December afternoon at the library.”

“She is a trained soprano, and she’s been very, very gracious to offer her talents for us to do a little bit of a fundraiser,” said Debbie Krause, the library’s community engagement co-ordinator.

Polito’s credits include performances with the Port Colborne Operatic Society, Garden City Productions in St. Catharines and the Firehall Theatre in Niagara Falls.

The live performance will feature Christmas movie melodies and holiday classics with Anthony Scaringi of Niagara Falls on the piano. 

Scaringi is an accomplished Niagara pianist.

His credits include being the accompanist for the Queenston Ladies’ Choir and band leader and co-music director for NOTL’s Yellow Door Theatre Project’s 2019 winter season.

“There will be a component of sing-along as well,” added Krause.

The concert will be in the main space of the library, under the rotunda.

“We will move the shelves out of the way, and it’ll be in the center of the room,” said Krause.

“The library will be closed and she’ll be under the big dome.”

All proceeds from the $15 ticket price will go back to the library to help enhance programs, services and collections.

Christmas Bake Off

If you think your home baking stands apart from the rest, you can test that theory at the library’s Holiday Cookie/Squares Exchange on Dec. 17.

The format is simple: Bring in your already-baked cookies and let the tasting begin.

Registrants will receive an email from Krause the day before the event, informing them of how many people have registered.

Once that number is determined, each registrant will bake enough cookies of their choosing to allow for every attendee to have six each.

“And then everyone takes selection,” said Krause.

Coffee and tea will be provided along with plates, bowls and cutlery — bring your own serving utensils.

The event goes from 2 to 3 p.m.

Old Book Page Gift-Wrap

For those thinking of a green Christmas, using recycled book pages to create that perfect gift bow is a great way to stay environmentally friendly.

Also on Dec. 17, as part of the library’s Craft Connect workshop series, this session will feature upcycling old book pages into gift wrap accessories for adding a unique touch to holiday presents.

The event goes from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and all craft materials are provided.

Registering or general inquiries about these events and other hosted by the NOTL Public Library can be done by emailing dkrause@notlpl.org.