Library Celebrates Its Birthday With Children

By Nancy K. Crevier

In a reverse sort of birthday party where the birthday hostess, a grand old lady of 75 years, did all of the giving and gladly received only the appreciation of her guests, the C.H. Booth Library celebrated her diamond birthday with more than 100 Newtown youth Thursday, August 16, from 1 to 3 pm, at a party that filled Edmond Town Hall gymnasium.

Balloons, cake, music, games, and entertainment were the order of the day, as with all good birthday parties. The afternoon kicked off with all voices joined together in a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” to the library, as children’s librarian Marie Walker lit the candles on the two large cakes donated by Stop & Shop. The bobbing balloons decorating the gym were due to the generosity of the Drug Center on Church Hill Road. Lucky partiers Sarah Hilty, Capri Agresta, and Christopher Placido did the honors of blowing out the candles. Then began 45 minutes of fun, amazing tricks, and just plain goofy, good times.

An orderly group of children sprawled on the floor and leaned against adults, reached from their strollers, and sat cross-legged, delighted by the antics of The Airborne Jugglers, Joe Murray and Susan Kirby. Mr Murray and Ms Kirby expertly juggled hats, rings, stuffed animals, and a variety of other objects, sometimes calling on the aid of children in the audience.

Madeline Sieber bravely held a pretzel rod between her lips as the juggling duo tossed bowling pins in front of and behind her, never once knocking the cracker from her mouth. Audience member Amanda Lee showcased a talent she did not even know she possessed when, under the tutelage of Mr Murray and Ms Kirby, she mastered the art of plate spinning in front of the appreciative crowd.

Cake and juice was served following the juggling act, and a crew of artists was on hand to paint any smiling face that so desired. A long line of children patiently waited for a chance to have Mr Murray or Ms Kirby teach them to spin plates and make balloon creations.

“The kids are having fun,” said Ms Woycik, pleased that the party was such a success.