It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Willard Library! Santa and his reindeer plan to stop at the library’s downtown location, 7 W. Van Buren St., on Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. 

Tynisha Dungey, director of youth services at Willard Library, details all of the fun planned for the evening, “People should expect to have an amazing time exploring the library and getting in the spirit of Christmas. Participants will be able to pet a real reindeer, take a picture with Santa, enjoy hot cocoa and cookies while watching a nice Christmas movie, and make Christmas themed crafts in Santa’s workshop.” Crafts and activities will be spread throughout the library, so there will be plenty for families to do and see while they wait for Santa.

The library has hosted a “holiday open house” for several years, and it has become a yearly tradition for many families. Says Dungey, “We decided to bring Santa and his reindeer back this year because we wanted children to experience the nostalgia of meeting Santa Claus, and not many people can say that they have actually pet a live reindeer. We want children to create lasting memories of Santa and his reindeer, but also create fond memories of the library.” Willard Library is delighted to be hosting Santa again this year, and to be part of future fond memories for local children.  

In the past, Santa’s visit has been one of the library’s most popular programs. Dungey has a few words of advice for parents, “Dress warmly. This program is very popular and we want you to be comfortable if you have to wait in line outside to see the reindeer. Be patient. This is an amazing event and there will be people from all over the community wanting to participate. Have fun. A lot of time and love has been put into this program to make sure it is fun for all who attend.”  Santa is busy making his list and checking it twice; parents should be sure to bring a camera for photos, and don’t forget those Christmas wishlists!