Knitters launch get-togethers at NFM library
Are they knitters who enjoy to read or readers that enjoy to knit?
That’s just part of the mystery of the new group that meets at the North Fort Myers Library monthly – the Miss Marple Knitters.
“Miss Marple is the fictional character created by Agatha Christie,” said organizer Rickie Howie. “She’s always knitting and unraveling clues.”
This new group get-together recently had it’s second session on Feb. 3, launching the first Tuesday in January. They will meet at the North Fort Myers Library on the first Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m. Everyone who knits, crochets, sews and quilts is welcome.
Reference librarian Joan O’Brien said the library enjoys having the group.
“It’s basically a time for these knitters to get together and share,” she said.
Howie is a local crafter who started the group.
“I started this for the camaraderie,” said Howie. “We’re here to share and work on projects. We do want people who know how to knit, and let people know this isn’t lessons.”
She said some of the sharing is hints on where to find information on knitting, including popular Web sites and where to find patterns.
Of the type of group that has gathered, she said, “It always seems to be people who like to knit like to read, and readers like to knit. Knitters are usually nice and interesting people.”
Sherry Ivory of North Fort Myers was one of the participants at the recent Miss Marple get-together. She is working on a yellow afghan.
“I like giving blankets as gifts because they [children] don’t grow out of them so quickly,” she said.
“I hadn’t knitted in 40 years, but I met Rickie when she started teaching a class and been doing it ever since,” said Fort Myers resident Joan Halpern, who traveled to North Fort Myers to join the group.
The monthly gathering welcomes more than just knitters.
“This group will concentrate on handicrafting, so if anyone is doing hand sewing, embroidery or crocheting or quilting, they are also welcome to join us. We love the library, it’s a great setting,” said Howie.
Howie is also active in a group called the Char-Lee Weavers, which recently had a gathering at the Cape Coral Library.
“It’s a group of people from Charlotte, Lee and Collier counties, a guild of ‘fiber people.’ We weave, spin, felt and do anything else that has to do with fiber.”
Weaving is what got Howie interested in different crafting, especially at the library.
“About eight years ago I actually came to a demonstration of weavers in this very library room,” she said. “I came with two grandchildren – these are boys – and they even enjoyed the activities and did some weaving.”
Howie’s work is known around town. She’s even had pieces in the Alliance for the Arts.
It’s a good group so far, said Howie. “The people are so nice, and we’re inviting more to attend.”
For information, call the library at 997-0320.
Other February
programs at the library
For teens, there’s a special “Make a Valentine Gift Party” set for 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 11. They can create unique duct tape treasures for Valentine’s Day gifts or personal keepsakes – roses, rose pens, ties and more. All materials and refreshments provided. Registration is requested.
A Tea and Chocolate Tasting will take place on Thursday, Feb. 12, at 2 p.m.
Laurie Nienhaus returns this year with a new program, said library officials. Along with her historic repertoire, Nienhaus will be pairing a number of chocolate types with compatible teas.
On Thursday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m., there will be a book discussion of Sidney Poitier’s “The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Autobiography.”
“Sidney Poitier is well aware of his contributions to the art of film, playing in a number of pieces with controversial topics that were far more than simply influential on life beyond the silver screen. However, he is a modest man who values family above all. This is a great read, written by an equally great man,” said the library’s Courtney Barr in a written statement about activities.
For families, there’s Family Storytime at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, Feb. 11 and 18. This program is for the whole family and lasts about 30 minutes.
Registration is required.
There’s also a “Happy Birthday Abe Lincoln!” kid’s program at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12. “What was it like to live during Abraham Lincoln’s time or be one of his family or friends? Dressed in period costume, presenter Christine Wappers will create this scene and share her knowledge of the time period. Join us for birthday cake and an unforgettable experience,” said Barr.
Anansi and the Tree of Life Puppet Show will be held at 4 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16
Puppeteer Katie Adams presents a collection of African tales using music, storytelling, and audience participation. Registration is required.
Kids will get a chance to “Read Down Fines” in that program, scheduled for 2 p.m., on Saturday, Feb. 21. Children and teens can earn a $2 coupon for every 15 minutes of reading during the allotted time in the designated area of the library. Coupons may be applied to cards issued to patrons age 18 and under only. Registration required.
The North Fort Myers Public Library is located at 2001 N. Tamiami Trail, N.E., in North Fort Myers. For more information about a program or to register, call the library at 997-0320. A sign language interpreter is available with 48-hour notice. Call the Deaf Service Center at 461-0334 (voice) or 461-0438 (TTY). Assistive listening devices are available upon request.
Check the Lee County Library System’s Web site at www.lee county.com/library for more information, or pick up an events calendar on your next visit, to find out about programs at other locations.