Staff at the Rimbey Municipal Library have been working hard to bring safe, engaging activities and events to the community during COVID-19, and now have several exciting things on the go, including a Curbside Concert Series.
Just a few weeks ago, library staff were happy to have held their first in-person event since the shutdowns began — a magic show — and were eager to host more events, but were unsure of when, or how, they’d be able to do so.
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But now, several things came together quickly, and the library is pleased to be able to offer a variety of programs and community events.
The first curbside concert was held on Aug. 28 and featured folk singer Peter Stone from the band 100 Mile House.
“It just fell into our lap,” said library manager Jean Keetch, adding that the first concert was put together in less than a week.
The Beatty Heritage House Society, which organizes Home Routes concerts, asked if the library would be interested in hosting some of those same performers and artists.
“I jumped at the opportunity to partner with them,” said Keetch.
“I think its amazing for the community.”
The first concert was well-attended, with about 110 people coming out to listen to the music, and Keetch says people were very respectful of social distancing protocols, and there was plenty of room.
“It was a lovely evening … so many people told me how well they enjoyed it.”
Ben Sures will take the stage on Friday, Sept. 4, followed by Lucette on Sept. 11, Dayna and Tyler on Sept. 18, all at 7 p.m., and Matt Masters on Sept. 26, at 2 p.m.
The free outdoor concerts, held at the Rimbey Lions Park No. 1, boast a range of musical genres, from folk to swing, alternative, country and pop.
So come out with a lawn chair, and remember to social distance, and listen to some sweet tunes. All ages are welcome.
In case of poor weather, the concerts will be moved to the Paskapoo Park Pavilion.
The 45-minute shows are free-of-charge, though a donation to the library is encouraged to help offset costs.
For more information, contact the library or Beatty Heritage House Society.
The library is also hosting a series of anti-oppression workshops, presented by UBUNTI Alberta, in partnership with the Rimbey United Church.
The dates for those are Sept. 26, Oct. 3 and Oct. 17, from 1 to 4 p.m.
The events will be held at the church, which has more space and will allow for more attendees.
The workshops deal with the concepts of oppression and how advocates can support marginalized communities.
Register through Eventbrite or by calling the library at 403-843-2841.
The library’s book club meets at the Rimbey United Church on Sept. 10, 17 and 24 at 7 p.m., and will be finishing up their discussion on the book How to Be an Antiracist.
After that wraps up, a monthly book club will be held, starting on Oct. 29 at 6 p.m.
The library is hoping to begin more children’s programming soon, and is currently coordinating with the town and the library board, working on ideas on how to offer programs safely.