Orange balloons that are actually purple? Children ignoring the pseudo rules of the adult in charge? The normally calm and cool atmosphere of the library replaced by music, food and enough boisterous behavior to make even the most stereotypically stern librarian bluster and blush? All is chaos at the Nakusp Public Library during the topsy-turvy story time every Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.
“I’m the adult, I am the librarian and you have the follow the rules and my rules are no laughing and kids have to be quiet at all times!” storyteller Sabina Iseli-Otto blurts at an eager and energetic group of kids with a wry smile.
Fortunately, the good-natured chiding causes a wave of smiles and uncontrollable giggles as the group crowds around the storybook being brought to life by the enigmatic Sabina. Youngsters of all ages are treated to a variety of children’s books, with intermittent breaks of balloon play, hide and seek games and (in defiance of the food taboo in a library) a healthy snack. Some sessions even have additional surprises like special guest readers and unique craft ideas.
All is laughter and joy as story enthusiasts fill the library with the rhythmic patter of socked feet across hardwood floors and fits of noise that drive most of the parents into a self directed sequestering to the magazine room to hide in the peace of a book.
Everyone is welcome to join in the fun every Saturday; “Lets just see what happens” Sabina tells the children with a smile.