Friends fill Plumb Library with holiday spirit

Dec 1, 2018

ROCHESTER — If patrons stopped by Plumb library on Dec. 1 they couldn’t use the computers, and the collection was a bit hard to access, but they could find plenty of holiday spirit, as the Friends’ Holiday fair took over the space, filling it with people, treats, goodies and music.

The library staff estimates that it has held the holiday fair for about 15 years.

The fair offers a silent auction on baskets donated by local businesses, games for the children, a table for the Rochester Historical Society, a bake sale, and live music.

To get donations for the silent auction at no cost to them, the library staff calls Plumb Corner merchants, shops on Route 6, accepts donations from patrons, and from the local Lion’s Club.

Some library groups, such as the knitting club, also sponsor baskets. 

The festive library also attracted Santa, who posed with children, the librarians, members of the Rochester Historical Society and the Friends of the Library.

Library Assistant Lisa Fuller also worked with Chris Williamson and Sue Audette, the  band and music teachers at Rochester Memorial School to have the Rochester Memorial School  Chorus, Saxophone and Flute trios perform. Rochester Cub Pack 30, and the Girl Scout troop 62150 also provided music.

Making enough space for up to 25 performers in the larger groups (and their audience) was tricky for the small library. They ended up putting away some of the tables and chairs that are usually in the children’s area to make room for performances. 

“We just clear the chairs and everything out by the front door and hope that no one tries to come in that way during performances,” said Gail Roberts, the Library Director.