PML: Celebrating Creativity

When you visit Parsons Memorial Library, you'll see that we might look like a library, but there's so much more happening inside. You'll find crocheted animals on shelves, handmade mittens ready for little hands, and a gallery of incredible art in our Community Room.

Creativity abounds at PML in myriad ways. Here are just a few we're shining our spotlight on:

Fiber Arts

Our fiber arts group got its start in late summer when library patrons, Keepers, and staff expressed a shared interest in getting together once a week to knit, crochet, do cross stitch, or what have you. Each Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon they bring their work to the Reading Room, a warm, inviting space with plenty of lighting and room to relax and work. Folks will often sip coffee or tea from our Tea Service table, and sometimes someone will bring a treat.

What's especially lovely about the group is that it's not only multigenerational, but it's also supportive. If someone is new to knitting or crochet, or even cross stitch, there's typically someone who can help. If someone is stuck or needs inspiration, seasoned fiber artists offer helpful advice on everything from where to find good yarn to the latest pattern to try.

As a bonus, if you're looking for supplies, visit our yarn pantry along the back wall of the Young Adult section. We've got donated needles, crochet hooks, even small weaving kits. There's also colorful yarn to choose from. If you're interested in fiber arts, join us on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Fiber Artists enjoy our Fiber Arts group on Saturday mornings from 10-12

Artists Open Studio

When you visit the library, be sure to venture down to our Community Room to see the latest exhibit from the local artists who use our Artists Open Studio. Each Wednesday, from 1-4 p.m., we invite area artists to set up shop in our Community Room to paint, draw, sketch, and just create.

Artists working in our Artists Open Studio

Why use our space? Well, we've got plenty of tables to spread out on, strong lighting, a comfortable climate, and access to coffee and tea. We love seeing the artists who visit each week and look forward to admiring their latest works.

Right now, you can see paintings from Jean Caddell, Carol Santora, Sheila O'Neil Clough, Laura Power, and more. There are stunning pastels from Lee Macos, and gorgeous pieces of woodwork by Dominique Zulueta.

"Gossips" and "Ginger Kitty" by Carol Santora

Various works by Sheila O'Neil Clough

A lovely nighttime piece from Laura Power

Jean Caddell shows off the colors of summer

"Warm Heart" by Dominique Zulueta

What makes our Artists Open Studio special is that it offers a place you can work in the company of other creative people. It's an opportunity to share ideas, get input on shading or technique, or just enjoy making something beautiful in good company.

Drop-In Programming

Much of our Drop-In Programming is centered around creativity. We've done everything from altered-book vases and journals to terrariums, and more. We've made gnomes, been taught the art of collage, done bead craft, made Valentines, painted plaques, and tie-dyed t-shirts. Keep on eye on our events page for upcoming events.

A collection of completed Upcycled Book Vases

We also invite you to bring your builds to PML. If you got small-to-medium Lego projects or other model building sets, you're welcome to use our table space to build on. You might even catch one of us making a tiny library!

PML. We're so much more than books!