Schuylkill Valley Community Library held their second annual “Eggstravaganza” on Saturday, March 28. The event began at 10:30 a.m. with projects for the early birds, including coloring, word searches, and foam chicks to decorate.
The tables were filled in the library as children arrived and began working on their Easter-themed crafts.
Anthony DeJesus, a Schuylkill Valley kindergarten student from Leesport, attended the festivities with his mother, Rosa, and baby brother, Marcello. Although appearing to be involved in his coloring project, Anthony stated that his reason for attending the “Eggstravagana” was, “I’m going to get eggs.”
Abigayle W., a first grade student from Schuylkill Valley Elementary school, attended the preliminary crafts and had completed a foam art project. She was waiting for the egg scramble with her brother, Austin, in seventh grade at Schuylkill Valley.
Austin explained that he “comes to the library once a week to do homework and use the computer.” Abigayle said that she was “just here for the party and the Easter egg hunt!”
By 11 a.m., the scheduled time for the egg scramble, approximately 34 children and their families were gathered in the library to stay warm prior to the outdoor event.
Kelly Jacoby, the Children’s Librarian, coordinated all of the activities of the day with the help of library clerk, Amanda Morelli, and volunteer, Linda Dunkle.
Jacoby led all of the attendees outside to the fenced area to give directions for the egg scramble. Every child received a card listing how many eggs of each color they had to locate in order to finish the hunt. Despite Jacoby stating that she hoped there were enough eggs due to the large number of children, everyone completed their assignment and returned to the library.
Library volunteer, Linda Dunkle, also a member of the Hamburg Lions Club, explained that Children’s Librarian, Jacoby, has really “gotten the community involved” with the library. She further described Jacoby as “a breath of fresh air.”
After being outside in below freezing wind chills, the children and their families were situated back at the library tables to begin egg coloring projects. It was evident by the happy faces of all involved that the event was a success.
Kaitlin Haberen, 5, of Leesport, stated plainly that she “just liked getting the eggs,” but she was actively involved with the group completing all of the Easter art projects planned by Jacoby.
Describing her feelings about her position at the Schuylkill Valley Community Library, Jacoby confirmed, “I love my job. I love getting to do this kind of stuff.”
Upcoming events at the library include Open Mic Poetry Reading on Tuesday, April 7, at 6 p.m. The Berks Bards will lead off the event and the public is encouraged to attend to read their own original pieces or their chosen published poetry.
The library book sale is on Friday, April 10, from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information, please call or visit the library at 610-926-1555, 1310 Washington Road, Leesport.