MUNCY – To find rest and relaxation, fun, entertainment, and make something unique, one only needs to visit their local library. For the month of December the Muncy Public Library had a variety of programs for all ages and interest levels.

Earlier this month, local resident, Fred Temple held a wreath making workshop where several participants created and decorated festive wreaths made from a selected variety of live greens. Fred, who has been doing this for the past 7 years at the library, even supplied the embellishments. Nan Rusczyk, President of the Muncy Friends Library, said that this was her third year to make one. Faye Cheesman and her husband, Bill came from Picture Rocks and both said they would like to come again next year. This event is always held the first week in December.

Book signings are also popular at the Muncy Library and new authors from the area are encouraged to use the library as a venue to circulate their titles. This month Rosemary Neidig came to the library to introduce her “candid memoir” as a sexual assault and breast cancer survivor. Now a widow and a mother of five, she closed the doors to her private counseling practice of 24 years, just two years ago, and devoted her time to write “Every Two Minutes, One Woman’s Healing Journey Through Sexual Traumas.” The title has significant meaning according to Neidig, “Every two minutes someone is sexually assaulted in the United States.” Her story reflects a survivor’s aspects and how she coped and suppressed her memories. Once she started journaling, Neidig said the memories surfaced and she encourages anyone who has survived a trauma to write their story. Rosemary will also be at the Montgomery House Library on January 21st.

On Saturday afternoon, December 21, Lester Hirsh, a professional musician from Watsontown came to delight everyone with his talented voice and ability to play several instruments at once. Combined with storytelling, he weaves the history of America with his songs, noting to the audience how the lyrics were written and relating the background stories of the songs. Specializing in music and poetry Hirsh has traveled extensively throughout the East Coast, and enjoys playing a diversity of “Americana”. “Many lyrics are adapted by our ancestors,” he said. He also enjoys playing at nursing homes and retirement homes the most. He has written an autobiography of songs, “Lyrics of A Troubadour” devoted to his family and parents. A second printing will be out soon. In April he will be at the Montour Preserve and the Lewisburg Library.

Next month the library will continue with their popular children’s programs, especially Toddler Tales and the Pre-school storytelling hour.