The Medicine Hat Public Library has launched a new subscription box service running four times per year. The first round of boxes sold out, and more will be released in May.--SUBMITTED PHOTO
mcranker@medicinehatnews.com@mocranker
The Medicine Hat Public Library is continuing to find ways to get books in the hands of Hatters.
The library launched a subscription box service around a week ago and has already sold out of March’s boxes.
Head of marketing services Gillian Reimer says the public library is thrilled with the response.
“It was about a week and they sold out, which is awesome,” she said. “We didn’t know exactly what the response would be, but we’re obviously happy it’s so positive.”
Each box will carry a different theme, with March’s being self care.
Inside each box will be two library books that need to be returned, a piece of MHPL merchandise and other locally-sourced items.
People will be asked for their reading preferences beforehand so library staff can pick appropriate books.
The library will launch boxes in May, September and December. All boxes will have limited quantities.
“We haven’t decided how many boxes we’re going to do going forward, but they will be limited,” said Reimer.
With the library being forced to close numerous times during the pandemic, its staff has found various ways to keep people reading.
“We’re trying to figure out how to get material into people’s hands,” she said. “It’s tricky right now because people can’t come in and browse like they used to.
“Our no-contact pickup service has been well used and we are busy. We’re thankful for the community support through this.”
The library is still selling merchandise and got another order of colouring books in recently.
The library is also releasing activity kits soon for Family Week. It will announce more information on social media.
Boxes are available to those who have a library card. More information can be found at http://www.mhpl.shortgrass.ca
