The Callander Public Library has launched a new community initiative, a Puzzle Exchange, to provide an accessible activity during the current stay at home order.
People can trade a puzzle they have completed and select a new one from a collection of puzzles donated by the community. Puzzles donated to the program are quarantined in the library.
Once a week, staff update the website and social media to include a list of the puzzles available for pick up via the Callander Library's contactless curbside service. Participants can then call and select a puzzle they wish to pick up. Those who don't have a puzzle to exchange but would like to participate are encouraged to contact the library.
"The puzzle exchange allows everyone to give and share and be able to connect," says Robin Benard, Assistant Librarian. "Community connection is really important, and in a time like a pandemic it is hard to make it happen. So this is a way that's safe, but people know they're helping each other and they feel connected."
Deputy Mayor, Jordy Carr, says “Puzzles provide multi-generational entertainment and can be enjoyed alone or as a group. Not only does it provide entertainment, the benefits cognitively are immeasurable. It is so healthy to take your mind off the stressors in life and focus on a project.” She says. “I really enjoy them. I am so excited we can share this outlet with the community.”
People have been eager to get their hands on a new puzzle. The Library has a wide range of puzzles available for a range of abilities. With many people commenting that they have had difficulty procuring a puzzle to entertain themselves in lockdown due to the recent surge in popularity, the program has been very popular.
For more information on the new Puzzle Exchange or curbside services, call Melissa Sones, CEO at 705-752-2544 or visit their website.
