If learning a new hobby is your New Year’s resolution, you might want to stop by the Port Hardy Library which is offering a new program. 

“Needlecraft Circle is a community space for people to knit, crochet, crewel, hook-rug, embroider, or do any other fibre art or craft,” said Manager Laura Kaminker. 

“The Library has some knitting needles and a supply of yarn, but we encourage folks to bring their own projects,” Kaminker said.  The Circle is a place to be social while working on a textile or fibre project – chat with others, share challenges, get advice, give advice.

Vancouver Island Regional Library also offers an excellent digital resource for crafters, called Creativebug. It’s full of ideas, how-to videos, instructions, and classes taught by artists. These are professionally made videos – no need to waste time sorting through a YouTube search. “It can help folks take their crafting to a new level or just give some great ideas. And of course, Creativebug is free with your library card,” she explained.

“At the Library, we love digital resources, but there’s no substitute for gathering in person. The Library is the perfect place to meet friends with similar interests.”

Needlecraft Circle takes place every Thursday afternoon at 3. Everyone is welcome, from experts to newbies. The Library closes at 7 p.m. on Thursdays, and folks are welcome to stay as long as they like. “We’re also offering Crafternoon & DIY on Wednesdays from 3:30-5 p.m. Like Needlecraft Circle, Crafternoon is self-directed. “We’ll put out a whole bunch of craft supplies, and folks can have at it. No pressure, no competition, just a space to create and be social.”