The first public library in this country was established in Franklin Massachusetts in 1790. Benjamin Franklin donated 116 books with the intention that townsfolk could borrow them for free. What a gift!
Our Clear Lake Public Library began in 1889. The beautiful Carnegie Library that still stands was opened in 1918. And not only are we a year round gift to our Clear Lake, we have a special holiday offer for you. We’d like to sit on your Santa lap and whisper in your ear.
Do you feel overwhelmed with Christmas coming? Financially burdened or creatively stumped? The CLPL elves, often called librarians, are here to be your helpers. You can deliver a unique and meaningful gift to your loved one. And probably best of all- you can do this for FREE! I think Benjamin Franklin is smiling.
Little people have no idea how much you spend on them. The landfill is full of expensive, broken, and forgotten toys. Stop the cycle of waste. Give them something priceless and memorable. Give them the gift of your time and attention. Come on in to the recently refurbished kids area. It still has that new car smell. There are toys and games galore to keep your little entertained. If you come at either baby lap or toddler story time, there are built in playmates. What a gift that gives twice. The parents get a bit of adult time too as you enjoy your time with the special small person in your life.
Ya know those fruit/ cheese/ wine of the month gifts? We’ve noticed that kids don’t care much for those. We have a better idea. Sign them up for the puppet of the month club. It’s easy. Just get a library card for you or them and then head down to the children’s area to shop for your puppet. There is a huge selection to choose from. The kiddo gets to play with their “new” puppet for two weeks before returning it to the library. But wait! There’s more! They can then choose a different puppet friend to take home for a couple weeks. And best of all- it’s FREE!
Give your gang the gift of an experience. Gather round the table and do a puzzle. Or play a game. You will find a great selection in our Library of Things. If your group prefers movies, we have an extensive collection to choose from. If you don’t find anything in house, our online platform Hoopla offers oodles for streaming. All these ideas will cost you a grand total of- nothing. Perhaps at that price you add your own special touches. Get some festive snacks and have an unforgettable evening.
What about that person who is impossible to buy for? Don’t. Tell them to put on their ugly sweater for a date afternoon with you. Grab a coffee or hot chocolate at your favorite place. Slap a lid on that cup and head over to the CLPL. We have a community puzzle out to challenge your skills. No mess on your dining room table. Or come on the third Saturday of each month from 11-1 and get that gray matter busy when you join in on Scrabble. We have several really cool game boards set up waiting for players. You can also check out a study room and bring your own games.
Watch for our special programs. You can bring your date and together hear interesting speakers, explore subjects in depth, and spark your curiosity. FREE! That bargain might even inspire you to spring for dinner.
Ask a relative or friend to join a book club with you. We have 4 to choose from. Mystery book club, dystopian book club, book chat, books on tap, and classics book club offer a variety of options. The CLPL provides the books and the discussion group. You get the fun of hearing what others got from the read and the chance to connect with your friend throughout the year. Christmas is extended. For FREE.
I’m seeing lots of ads for Ancestry. Must be a popular Christmas gift. Before you send your money away, we want you to know that the CLPL offers both Ancestry (including the international version) and Family Search for FREE. Tell your gift recipient that you’ll help them get started at the library. Bring your laptop or use one of our computers . We won’t do a DNA test, but we’ll show them how to find the branches of their tree. The History librarian can schedule individual time to help too if you’d like.
Speaking of history, make an appointment to bring your history buff in to browse our beautiful collection of North Iowa history and photos of Clear Lake landmarks. Sometimes our older family members have trouble with recent memories but can recall the past like it was yesterday. Your gift to them could be a few hours of reminiscing in the History Room. That time just might be the best gift you receive this Christmas.
Messy art, cards and creativity, a teen escape room, and pajama story hours for families complete with stuffies. Our programs and ideas for affordable (heck-FREE) gifts that will build lasting memories are endless.
So no matter the age or interest of your loved one, we have unique gift ideas for you. With no obligation or salesperson trying to convince you to upgrade.
The CLPL, here since 1889.
Making Christmas shopping fun, easy and priceless.
Now with updated facilities and staff.
Pictured is Christmas by the Lake Story Time in 2016.