To conclude the National Library Week celebration, the Friends of the Belleville Public Library hosted a paint night. Eighteen people attended and no two paintings were alike.

"Our National Library Week celebration was a great deal of fun for everyone," said Bronna Lehmann. "I can't offer enough thanks to the Friends of the Belleville Public Library, especially the board of directors, for the planning, funding, and volunteers necessary to hold four events for children and adults in just one week.  We couldn't have done it without them."

National Library Week events included construction equipment in the parking lot and the Shel-a-bration poetry performance for the kids, plus author Tom McKay's talk and our painting fundraiser.  About 140 people total attended, plus those who stopped in on patron appreciation day for cake.

"People had a blast at our Paint Night event," said Bronna Lehmann. "A few people discovered a talent that they didn't know they had.  Another laughed, shrugged at her results and said she would do it again in a heartbeat."

Lehmann added that the library wants to have a paint night again and maybe continue the learn by doing concept to other arts and crafts, like jewelry making or pottery.