Pickering residents can soon exchange their old Halloween costume for another one that’s new to them, thanks to a successful program at the library.
Pickering Public Library staff decided three years ago to try out a Halloween costume exchange after learning about libraries in the U.S. hosting similar events.
“Our community has a large amount of families with numerous children in them,” said Sarah West, children’s services librarian. “Multiple-kid families mean you’re buying a Halloween costume every single year. If you’re buying that for five kids that can get pricey. And then what happens to that costume? We want to be sustainable.”
From Sept. 19 to Sept. 29, the library will accept clean, gently used Halloween costumes for the exchange.
When someone drops off a costume at any library branch, they’ll receive a ticket that will allow them to come back to the exchange event on Oct. 1 and select a costume to take home.
If the costume has props to go with it, they’ll need to be placed in a large sealable plastic bag, attached to the costume. The library will also accept costume props and accessories without costumes.
Those with costumes they would like to donate but do not want a new one in exchange are welcome to donate them during this time.
If there are gaps in sizes of the costumes available, staff will purchase some from Value Village, so costumes are available for all ages.
“Every year it’s growing,” said West. “We’ve had really positive feedback from the community.”
The exchange will take place on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Central branch, located at One The Esplanade, Pickering. Ticket holders will be able to select a costume beginning at 2:30 p.m.
Those who don’t have a ticket can select a costume starting at 3 p.m. and are asked to provide a donation to the food bank in exchange.
“We really hope this will continue to grow,” said West. “We hope the community takes advantage of it.”
All leftover costumes will be taken to the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Pickering.
The event is free and open to people of all ages.
Source : News
