Tap Into Your Creativity
Your local library can help you nurture and develop your creative side
What comes to mind when you think about creativity? Painting, crafting, drawing, writing? Most people perceive creativity as engaging in something artistic, but there is more to invention than artistic pursuits. Creativity is coming up with new ideas and putting them into action. You are creative when cooking, decorating or organizing a social gathering. Inventiveness can also apply to building furniture or designing a new home.
Do You Think That You Are Not Creative?
Creativity may come more readily for some people, but that does not mean you don’t have the potential to enhance this quality in yourself. There are several benefits to boosting your creativity that make building your creative muscle a worthy endeavor:
- Relief from stress and anxiety
- Elevated mood
- Improved self-esteem
- Sense of accomplishment
- Stronger immune function
- Support for healthy cognitive function
When was the last time you did something creative? If you’re overdue for imaginative time, check out what your local library has to help you tap into your creativity.
Attend a Library Program
If you enjoy visiting your local library, check out their event calendar for programming that fosters your creative side. You will find many arts and crafts and hobby programs, both in-person and via Zoom.
The North Bergen Free Public Library in New Jersey offers weekly Adult Art classes and Art for Kids classes that cover different art techniques during each session. You can attend classes in person or enjoy them from the comfort of your home through Zoom.
The Crandall Public Library in New York runs a photography program series for tweens and young people between the ages of 10–13. The Shutter Squad is offered seasonally, with six sessions covering the principles of photography and hands-on opportunities using professional equipment. To further enhance the lessons, participants can bring a camera home after class to practice what they’ve learned.
Check Out Kits to Enjoy at Home
You may feel more comfortable expressing yourself in the privacy of your home. You don’t have to participate in a library program to get your creative juices flowing. Some libraries are now circulating crafting and creativity kits you can check out just as you would a library book. These kits include books, instructions, and all the necessary supplies to try your hand at a new hobby.
The Wauwatosa Public Library in Wisconsin has a circulating collection of creative kits for children and adults that can be checked out for 21 days. Some available kits are knitting, paper crafting, floral design, and home decor.
Fun For All Ages
Washington state’s Tacoma Public Library offers a circulating collection of program kits for kids and families that bring the library craft program to your home. The themes rotate throughout the year and include crafting activities like paper treasure chests, mermaid origami, and boat building for kids. Teens and adults will love the Family Tree Starter Kit.
The DC Public Library’s Martin Luther King Jr. branch offers Teen To-Go Kits with different monthly themes such as creative writing, DIY, STEAM, adulting, self-care, and college and career readiness.
Spark Your Creativity with Your Library’s Digital Resources
The Des Moines Public Library is one of many public libraries offering their patrons access to the Creativebug database. Creativebug is a collection of art and craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. Thousands of videos will cover art and craft projects like painting, crocheting, baking, and quilting. If your interest is piqued, find out if your local library subscribes to Creativebug. Then, all you need to do is enter your library card information to get crafting!
Resources and More
If you like the idea of a database full of arts and crafts videos, you’ll also love Craftsy. You can access this video class collection through public libraries such as the Los Angeles Public Library. If your neighborhood library subscribes to Craftsy, you must enter your library card number and PIN to enjoy online tutorials about photography, gardening, yarn crafting, and more.
Another popular digital option is Universal Class, offered by libraries such as the Buda Public Library in Texas. Universal Class is another library database offering opportunities to sharpen your creativity through online courses. Many courses cover educational or professional development topics, but you’ll also discover an excellent selection of courses for creativity. Check out the Crafts & Hobbies section for courses on floral arrangement, bread baking, creative writing, soap making, and party planning.
Creativity Your Way
Creativity means different things to different people, and there is no single way to be creative. Your neighborhood library offers various options to support your creativity, no matter your interests or skill levels. Whether you’re looking to get artsy, make home improvements, or dive into some fun in the kitchen, your library has something for you. Check out your local library’s online catalog or calendar of events to discover your next creative passion.
Visit www.everylibrary.org to learn how you can help libraries support mental health in their communities.
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