Wooster Main Library showcasing yarnbombing

The Wayne County Public Library is filled with books that spin yarns. Now, through August, the main library building and the surrounding area are filled with yarn as well. Yarnbombing at Wooster Main Library was the brainchild of adult department manager Dianna Drake.

“I did yarnbombing with a group in Canton in 2023 and loved it,” Drake said. “When I saw the theme for summer reading this year was art, I knew I wanted to make it happen here. The project, designed to coincide with the library’s summer reading club, consists of pieces both knitted and crocheted.”

A regular group began meeting last September to create the colorful works now on display. The group of five regulars worked through May. A handful of others contributed a piece or two each to the final project.

During the creation of the yarn pieces, Drake could sometimes be seen measuring light posts and other fixtures around the grounds to come up with size estimations for the pieces needed.

“I am very thankful to the patrons who gave their time, skill and yarn to make this happen,” Drake said.

Part of Drake’s motivation was to expand the community’s knowledge and appreciation of fiber arts in a new way.

“I wanted fiber arts to be included in this art-focused summer reading program,” she said, “and for patrons to experience fiber arts in a way they might not have before.”

She said knitting and crochet aren’t often included in the conversation when thinking of fiber art.

“It is something I’m passionate about,” she said. “I wanted others who are also passionate about it to have a chance to share it with the community.”

Yarnbombing fiber art pieces may be viewed both outside and inside the library. There are pieces on the light fixtures in the back parking light, on the bicycle rack out front and in many other unexpected spots. There are surprises of the yarn art scattered all throughout the library building inside, upstairs, downstairs and even on the stairs. And be sure to check out General Wooster as he stands guard near the front entrance. He’s sporting a new, patriotic scarf.

Yarnbombing at Wooster Main Library is currently on display until the end of August. The library is located at 220 W. Liberty St. in Wooster.