You probably think of October as pumpkin patch or spooky
season, but in Wilmot, it's time for one of their most successful community
events. The Wilmot Public Library started their popular "Donkeys &
Donuts" program when indoor events were on pause during the COVID-19
pandemic. Initially, they partnered with Road to Independence, a local "non-profit, non-riding equine program for
individuals with differing abilities," inviting the group so that kids
could read to their donkey herd. Adults wanted to get in on the fun, and the library expanded
the program to include games, booths, live music and donuts. This year's
iteration included a bouncy obstacle course, pumpkin carving with Dave Lorden,
donkey-ear craft table, games and face painting, and a performance by
singer-songwriter and puppet master Tom Knight.
Even as the event has grown, reading to donkeys remains a core activity.
This is a fun example of how a small library, along with their Friends group
and local partners, can create community traditions and bring people of all
ages together.
