As December rolls in and the holiday season takes center stage, Washington County Library is not just about the books; it's hosting a series of events tailored for adults looking to learn, give back, and stay involved in community-centric activities. First off, note that all library branches will switch up their hours on the eves of Christmas and New Year’s, closing up shop at 5 p.m. on December 24 and 31, and staying doors closed on December 25 and January 1.
The Park Grove Library in Cottage Grove is upping its support game, helping locals navigate the intricacies of Medicare plans on Wednesday, December 4 from noon to 4 p.m. with the assistance of a Trellis volunteer, as described in an alert posted on the Washington County website. By appointment, community members who are new to Medicare or looking to make changes can get one-on-one counseling establishing a clearer understanding of their healthcare options and potential cost-saving strategies; this is indeed an insightful offering heading into the new year when resolutions often include taking better control of personal health and finances.
Jumping into a different kind of seeds, the Wildwood Library in Mahtomedi is bringing the community together with a seed packaging event on the evening of December 5, designed for nature enthusiasts and those curious about the life cycle of plants, this event promises to educate attendees on how to identify, clean, and package native seeds for the seed library exchange; participation can be as short or as long as you choose.
For those who are averse to readily discard items with a defect yet aren't skilled at the DIY repairs, the Fix-It Clinic at Hardwood Creek Library on Saturday, December 7 offers a winning solution. Volunteers will be on hand from 10 a.m. to noon, assisting with repairs on a variety of items, be they small household appliances, garments or electronics, this initiative not only extends the lifespan of commonly used objects but also encourages the community to engage in sustainable living practices without forking out extra cash for professional repairs or replacements.
Moreover, in the giving spirit of the season, the Park Grove Library will host a Red Cross Blood Drive, welcoming donors on Tuesday, December 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those interested in contributing to this life-saving cause can schedule an appointment through the American Red Cross website, the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, making it convenient for donors to reserve their slot in advance and partake in an act of profound compassion as they give a gift that could indeed turn the tide for recipients in dire need.