Holiday Happenings at The James Library & Center for the Arts

The James Library & Center for the Arts, Norwell’s historic community arts center and lending library, kicks off December with a weekend of community events celebrating the holiday season at 24 West Street, Norwell.

Art Exhibit: Simple Pleasures

Opening Reception: Friday, December 2, 6 to 8 pm

On view: December 2 to January 4 (gallery closed December 23 through January 2)

Painters Margaret McWethy and Lynne McCauley offer small scenes of daily life captured through moments that evoke nostalgia and comfort. Color, light, and a deft hand remind us what the really wonderful things in life are. Paintings are available for purchase, the perfect size for gifts, just in time for the holidays.

The Holiday Marketplace

Saturday, December 3, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Admission is free

Looking for locally made, one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season? Include the Marketplace when you shop this year. Artisans on three floors of the James offer quality pottery, photography, soaps, culinary creations, textiles, bird decoys, jewelry, writing instruments and more for unique holiday gift giving. This season’s unique craftspeople include Coldbrooke Pottery, Antrim Street Studio, Nina Z Jewelry, Allison Cole Jewelry, Whimsy Sweet Creations, Beadleful, Penturner, Toast & Dragon Studio Jewelry, Look at Me Designs, Sirenetta Seaside Chocolatier, Carberry Kitchen, Mattapoisett Bird Words, Emma Ferioli, and Minot Trading Company. Sponsored by Devine Feed & Pet, Liz McCarron Team at William Raveis, and Karen Mullaney, CPA.

Best Books of 2016 for Children

Sunday, December 4, 3:00 pm

Admission is free

Not sure what the best book for your child is? Norwell Public Library Children’s Librarian Nancy Perry and Inly School Librarian, author, and national book reviewer Shelley Sommer present their top picks for holiday gifts at this program. These ladies know kids and what they love to read. Buttonwood Books and Toys will be there with the suggested titles. Sponsored by Debbie and Andy Zildjian.

For more information or to purchase tickets for The James Library’s programs and events, please call 781-659-7100, visit www.jameslibrary.org or follow our social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About the James Library & Center for the Arts

Since 1874, The James Library has served the South Shore community as a warm gathering place. Housed in a landmark Victorian in historical Norwell Center, The James is dedicated to serving the community by providing high-quality programs, resources and materials through a concert hall, art gallery and the operation of a free lending library. As an independent, non-profit arts center we foster a mission for the creation, appreciation and enjoyment of the arts for residents of all ages on the South Shore, while preserving the historic character of our home. The James Library is located at 24 West Street, Norwell and is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 pm and on Saturday from 10 to 1 pm. For more information, please call 781-659-7100, visit www.jameslibrary.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.