Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a Danish word that refers to a lifestyle or atmosphere filled with coziness and contentment. Think of reading by the fireplace, warm sweaters and socks, or spending time with good friends over a hot drink. The concept of hygge has soared in popularity in the U.S. and the U.K. over the last two years, especially in the winter time. The Christian County Library, as part of its mission to connect community members and facilitate learning, is celebrating hygge this January with a selection of events and classes for all ages that embody the hygge concept.
On January 12 at 2:00 p.m at the Ozark Branch, explore the world of tea with Clayton Lile of Tantara Farms. He will discuss the history and varieties of tea, how to select and prepare tea, and we’ll taste samples from Tantara Farms. Also at the Ozark Branch, on Janaury 19 at 2:00 p.m. the library will host origami artist Mika Logan, who will teach Furoshiki, the Japanese art of gift wrapping with reusable cloth. Add an extra touch of charm to your gifts and help cut down on paper waste at the same time. Seating is limited, so contact the library to register for either of these classes.
For teens, there will be a Hygge Chill Day at the Nixa Branch Library on January 15 from 1:00-4:30 p.m. Stop in any time during the event and relax with coloring, puzzles, movies, and other cozy fun. At the Ozark Branch, teens and tweens can register to attend classes on Cozy No-Sew Pillows. The teen class, for grades 7-12, is January 19, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The tween class, for grades 3-7, is on January 19 at 1:30-3:00 p.m. Participants can bring one or two old favorite t-shirts and learn how to turn them into comfortable pillows.
For children of all ages and their families, escape the winter chill and cozy up indoors at the Nixa Branch for the Hygge Rock Painting extravaganza on January 12, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Participants can keep one rock for themselves and hide another as a delightful surprise for someone else. All supplies will be provided.
No time to attend library events? Let our library staff help you find the perfect book, and you can practice hygge at home by lighting a candle and curling up with your book and warm blanket. Library cards are free to all Christian County residents. Call (417)581-2432 for more information or to register for events.