Winter cold makes many people wish they could just cuddle up with a good book; others seek warm places to avoid cabin fever, while still others will get to the end of this year and vow to make more of 2013.

Whatever your inspiration — or your age — you should look to your neighbourhood library! Westwood Library truly has something for everyone — from toddlers to retirees, long-time residents to newbies.

If you have never been to the library at 66 Allard Ave., you should know it isn’t the stereotypical stuffy place you may have seen in movies. While there are rows and rows of books, study space and computer stations, there are also cheerful reading spaces for tots, a cozy corner for conversation, and a teen space complete with beanbag chairs.

There is no ‘shushing’ here – in fact reading out loud, networking and chatting with neighbours is encouraged!

Branch head Kirsten Wurmann says the Westwood Library is more of a community contact centre – that last true public space with equal access to information for all.
In addition to providing books and an infinite database of resources and information, the library offers a wide range of programs. Children’s storytime has been so popular that the library has recently begun story sessions for more seasoned readers.  Readings for Grownups invites adults to sit back and enjoy hearing tales of mystery, humour, drama and more. The next drop-in Adult sessions are Friday afternoons from 2 to 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 and 25, and Feb. 1 to 8.

Families looking to prove books are good entertainment are encouraged to build memories at the Lego Block party for 6-12 year olds on Thursday, Dec 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. The event comes complete with skill-testing trivia questions and a build-and-play Lego board game. The workshop is free but registration is required.  

If you are lucky enough to find a new electronic device under the tree this holiday season, you might want to consider the E-Reader Workshop February 21st and learn how to access books on your new toy.

The library is open Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to  8:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. For information on programs, workshops or for holiday hours, call 204-986-4742 or go online at http://wpl.winnipeg.ca/library.

Happy Holidays!

Sharon Pfeifer is a community correspondent for Westwood. You can contact her at sdrinteractive@shaw.ca.