Via Community News Service, a University of Vermont journalism internship for the White River Valley Herald
BETHEL – As snow began to fall, residents of Bethel gathered at the town library to enjoy an evening of reading, sweet treats, and a visit from the man himself: Santa Claus.
On November 30, the Bethel Public Library held its Christmas story time, complete with a visit from Santa and photo opportunities for children and their families.
The event was a group effort between the library’s board of trustees, the Bethel Rotary, and longtime Librarian Cathy Day, who has held the position since 1994. The library hosts a number of seasonal events throughout the year, including history talks, art shows, a Mother’s day tea, and — of course — Christmas story time.
“I feel like the library is the center of the community,” said Madeline Daniel, a board member for the library. “When I come here, I meet so many people and I just feel […] that Cathy gathers a lot of people around.”
The Bethel Public Library has kept its Christmas story hour tradition alive since 2005, with breaks only during COVID-19 and the library’s temporary move to Main Street last year.
On Sunday, Madelaine Daniel, secretary of the board of trustees for the library, started the night with a reading of the first book: “Peanut Penguins Perfect Present” by Harriet Stone and Sejung Kim. A rambunctious but engaged group of children, ranging from infants to 5-year-olds, sat with their parents to listen.
Caption: Board member Madelaine Daniel reads a comforting Christmas book to a group of families
A few moments before 5:00 p.m., a bell was heard ringing quietly outside. As the bells chimed louder and a jolly “ho, ho, ho” became audible, a hoard of children rushed to greet Santa at the back door of the library.
For the rest of the evening, families took turns having their photo taken with jolly Saint Nick, who gave candy from his sack to the children.
As the event came to a close, a handful of families stuck around to enjoy Christmas snacks and socialize. Members of the Bethel Rotary baked cookies, served apple cider, and provided juiceboxes for the kids to enjoy a nice Christmas treat.
After an exhausting day of picture taking and cookie eating, Santa was ready to get back to work.
“I work 365 days a year, so I don’t get a break,” Santa said. “But when I start seeing the lights go up around town, I really start getting excited. I know it’s close to Christmas.”