In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of comfort and warmth has become increasingly important.

The Brantford Public Library has an extensive collection books that celebrates the art of cozy living. From knitting patterns that wrap you in warmth to recipe books filled with hearty stews and soups, these literary gems are your ticket to a cozier, more comfortable life.

Nothing is cozier than heavy blanket, sweater or scarf. Whether you are new to crocheting or knitting, books such as Modern Crochet Sweaters by Janine Myska, Cable Knit Style, by Joan Ho, or Tom Daley’s book Made with Love would be good choices. There are even books on knitting items for dogs and knitting children’s clothing. Just visit the library, check the library’s online catalogue or speak to a library staff member for suggestions. You can also drop in and work on your projects during the St. Paul Crafters Circle on the first and third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at the St. Paul branch.

While soups and stews are classic cozy meals, the Library also has many books on the ultimate comfort food – cookies! With your library card, you can check out books like Martha Stewart’s Cookie Perfection, the 2023 book The Chocolate Chip Cookie Book, or the 2021 book The Best-Ever Cookie Book, which has 175 recipes for cookies. If you are looking for recipes for soups, just check out the 2017 Soups, which has more than 70 recipes, or the 2021 book Soups, Stews and More. Don’t forget to check the Libby app for a range of cooking magazines you can download instantly.

The term Hygge has been very popular the last few years. Hygge is a Danish concept that emphasizes coziness, comfort and the simple pleasures in life. To get started with this concept, check out the 2022 book My Hygge Home or the 2016 book The Little Book of Hygge. Before you know it, you will have a number of ideas on how to enjoy simple things in your life.

Living a cozy life isn’t only about the external environment. Luckily, the Brantford Public Library has a number of books and digital magazines that cover mindfulness and self-care. There’s the 2023 book The Mindful Body and the children’s book Believe, which offers a mindful approach to believing in yourself.

Remember, the library also lends out therapy lamps, snowshoes, bird watching kits and passes to both Ontario Provincial Parks and Grand River Conservation Authority parks.

At Your Library is a weekly column provided by the staff of the Brantford Public Library. Readers requiring more information can visit www.brantfordlibrary.ca

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