Art Supplies Available For Checkout At Public Library Of New London

You're probably aware that the Public Library of New London lends out DVDs, CDs, and other materials in addition to its books. Starting today, it's encouraging residents to take out drawing kits as well.

The kits will be available through Nov. 8 and are available to anyone with a library card. They include a sketchbook, graphite and charcoal pencils, erasers, and a pencil sharpener. Residents are encouraged to check out the kits, draw something that is important to them as a New Londoner, and return the drawing to the library. Residents may also use their own art supplies to contribute artwork.

The drawings are being collected for a public display, "I Draw New London," which will debut at the library with a reception from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Nov. 15. The drawings will be displayed for two weeks, after which they will be compiled into a book to be added to the library's collection. Anyone may participate regardless or age or artistic ability.

"Regardless our different backgrounds, we are all New Londoners. What better way to express that than to draw what is important to us and share it with our fellow New Londoners?" said Ellen Paul, head of reference. "We think that art transcends all boundaries and is a perfect way of telling our story as New Londoners. Further, libraries have always been repositories of historical documents. We think that we’re creating a historical document with this project. In 50 years, someone will be able to take this book off the shelf and see what life was like in New London."

The project is part of an overarching art theme adopted by the library for the next month. A show of Mitchell College students' photography of historic New London buildings, "A NEW Take on OLDE New London," was introduced at the library on Thursday. The library will be putting out art books and supplies in its displays and hosting an art trivia game on its Facebook page.

The library is also offering free art classes at 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays, starting this week and running through Nov. 8. Cynthia Samul, an illustrator and artist, will teach the classes. Registration is required and residents may reserve a space by calling Paul at 860-447-1411, ext. 3.

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