MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
With the holiday season underway and major renovations to begin, the Hutchinson Public Library is buzzing with activity. Hutchinson Public Library Director Greg Wamsley shared updates on programs, events, and improvements happening throughout the building.
Annual Scholastic Book Fair Underway
Wamsley kicked things off with the library’s Scholastic Book Fair, a yearly fundraiser benefiting the children’s department and its book collection. The fair runs through Saturday, Dec. 6, offering brand-new books, familiar classics, and kid-friendly items reminiscent of school book fairs.
“They’re great for stocking stuffers or last-minute gifts,” Wamsley said.
Youth Programs Continue Year-Round
The library maintains a full slate of activities for young patrons, including:
- Legos at the Library – First Saturday of every month at 10:30 a.m.
- Chess Club for Youth –Second Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. opportunities to learn or find a new opponent.
- Seasonal Story Times – Holiday break now; new sessions begin early next year.
“These are year-round programs designed to keep children engaged in learning and creativity,” Wamsley said.
Major Makerspace Expansion
One of the library’s biggest projects is the renovation of its basement Makerspace. The space will temporarily relocate upstairs while construction is underway.
Once finished, the new Makerspace will be triple its current size, offering expanded tools and equipment including:
- Additional 3D printers, including large-format models
- Laser engravers
- A large CNC machine
- Vinyl cutters, including Cricut-style machines
- Embroidery and sewing machines
- New computers for design software
Full-time staff and periodic training classes help visitors learn how to use the equipment.
“That’s what public libraries are about—providing access to things you may not be able to get on your own,” Wamsley said.
Hands-On Workshops and Holiday Events
The library is also offering special workshops and seasonal events:
- Holiday Activity Night – Dec. 11, 5 to 8 p.m., featuring a variety of holiday themed activities, games, and prizes for all ages. Play library bingo or go to bad art night for a chance to win fun prizes. Read to Rover, make festive crafts, and find holiday surprises throughout the library to celebrate the season.
- Holiday Cookie Exchange – Dec 20, 3 to 5 p.m., A popular RSVP event where participants bring two dozen cookies and return home with an assortment of new recipes and baked goods. Click here to RSVP for this event.
The library will observe the following closures:
- Closed: Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
- Open regular hours all other days, including New Year’s Eve
Regular operating hours are:
- Monday–Thursday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Program details, sign-ups, and Makerspace updates are available at hutchpl.org.
Wamsley said the goal remains the same: “Whatever your age or interest, we want you to come in, explore, and learn something new.”