T-L Photo/CARRI GRAHAM Brandi Little, director of the Barnesville Hutton Memorial Library, left, and Erin Castello, librarian, prepare for the library’s “Grinch Christmas” event set for 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the library.

BARNESVILLE — The Barnesville Hutton Memorial Library is helping residents get into the holiday spirit by hosting a variety of Christmas activities this month.

Each year for the holiday season, the library plans different activities that involve some favorite literary characters, crafts, snacks and, of course, Kris Kringle himself. Brandi Little, director of the Barnesville library, said last year was the exception. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Santa was unable to make his annual appearance. However, he will return this year, she said.

“We’re glad to be back and have this available again,” she added.

The events will kick off with “Grinch Christmas” from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, coinciding with Barnesville’s “Christmas in the Village” celebration. Children are welcome to drop in anytime during that period to participate in Grinch-inspired activities, Little said. Attendees will have the opportunity to read a book, design a themed bookmark and ornament to take home, and play a few games.

She said she is anticipating a good turnout since the program will take place before the Sulek & Dutton Lighted Christmas Parade. She said previously they have had anywhere between 30 and 50 children participate.

A family storytime with a “Gingerbread Christmas” theme will be held at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 7 at the library annex, located at 611 N. Chestnut St.

Following the reading of a book, attendees will make a family craft while enjoying a provided snack. Children of all ages are invited to attend.

Each family is asked to bring a snack or food item to be donated to Blessings in a Backpack. Little said they are looking for items such as fruit cups, pudding cups, granola bars, Easy Mac, Little Debbie snacks, Pop Tarts or popcorn.

Little said in the past the family storytimes have garnered attendance from around 60 kids. There are about half that many registered thus far. Registration for the event is required; those interested can do so by calling the library at 740-425-1651.

On Dec. 14, Santa and Mrs. Claus will make an appearance for the annual “Cookies with Santa” from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the library annex.

“The kids can come and sit on Santa’s lap and take pictures, and they each get a free book,” she said.

Little said all are welcome to stop by to visit with Santa. Registration is not required for this event.

The library is also accepting donations for its “mitten tree,” which will be on display through Dec. 17 inside the front entrance of the library. Little said they are collecting hats, gloves and scarves that will benefit the area’s children. She said they take the donations and decorate the tree with them until it is time to donate the items collected.

“We then distribute the items to the (Barnesville) schools and to St Vincent or to anyone who needs them,” she said, adding that they have also had people stop in the library and take what they needed from the tree.

For more information on any of the upcoming events or to donate clothing for the mitten tree, call 740-425-1651.