By Amanda Roberts
NOPL Creative Director
The Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) has new items to borrow in their collection, grab bags and pop-up books. February break is just around the corner, and NOPL’s ready to recommend some things that can translate a dull afternoon into family reading activity time.
The Brewerton Library has always generated praise for its expansive pop-up book collection. The collection initially was only for in-library use, but since COVID, the library decided to change that.
“We have some truly beautiful books, and it’s a shame that they rarely circulate,” says Brewerton Library Manager Alissa Borelli.
All of the pop-up books now have a 21-day check-out and are eligible for two renewals. The pop-up book collection includes well-known favorites such as Harry Potter, Pixar, Dr. Seuss, and Marvel Avengers. Many books are focused on subjects, such as volcanoes, farm animals, or space. Remember, pop-up books are not just for kids, and some are best for older readers as they can be quite complex. You can find these books in the library catalog by searching with the keyword “pop-up book” or visit NOPL.org/unusual for a direct link.
Grab bags were first announced on NOPL’s Facebook page in December when our North Syracuse Library took a picture of a transparent children’s backpack filled with an assortment of items relating to a theme. The response has been excellent, and now grab bags are available at all NOPL locations.
Each bag is different and comes with one or more items such as a music CD, DVD, craft kit, coloring pages, and an assortment of books, either picture, board, or pop-up. The bag items are suitable for, but not limited to, kids ages 2-7 years. Some of the themes available are Adventure, Dinosaurs, Princesses, Early Learning, Super Heroes, Winter, and Holiday (Valentine’s). At this time, grab bags can only be placed on hold by calling the library directly; availability and themes may differ at each NOPL branch.
As NOPL continues to offer curbside service, these are just a few of the unique and unusual items you can borrow from the library. To check-out more items in NOPL’s unusual collection, visit NOPL.org/unusual or call your local NOPL branch to receive assistance.