Originally published in the Chillicothe Gazette on December 13, 2025

When getting ready for winter weather, most people think about particular things. Snow shovels, space heaters, and maybe some extra firewood to have on hand. However, there is another threat that creeps in with the cold — the Winter Blues.

The holiday season can be frenzied and feel sometimes overflowing. The days and weeks that follow, however, can often feel strangely empty. Loneliness and boredom don’t have to be inevitable winter companions. At the library, our talented team of programmers are planning a variety of events to get you out of the house. Everything from a monthly Writer’s Group to an Enchanted Fairy Ball for grown-ups on January 30th. There are various book clubs and crafting events as well, where you’re sure to find a friendly face or two. Check out our full offerings on CRCPL.org/events.

If you’d rather the party come to you, host a movie night using our Hoopla and Kanopy digital apps. Both allow you to stream movies – and TV shows – at no charge with your library card. Maybe you’re not into movies and a game night is more your vibe. Browse over three dozen games in our Beyond Books Catalog! From Antiquity Quest to Undaunted Normandy, adventure is just a library trip away.

We can even help with the party’s background music! Download Freegal, a music app that allows you to stream five hours of music a day with your library card. You can even download three songs per week to keep!

If you prefer your gaming interactions online, we can help there, too. Borrow Madden NFL 26 for PS5, Monster Hunter Wilds for Xbox Series X, or Donkey Kong Bananza for Switch 2 free from the library. Save your cash for gaming subscriptions or upgraded snacks.

However, we realize that after the holidays, some folks are just simply peopled-out. Maybe the only friends you’re interested in connecting with are the fictional kind. We respect that. We trade materials with over 100 libraries in Ohio, which means if the story you want isn’t physically on our shelves, we still might be able to get it for you. Usually within a week. But if you’re an eBook or audiobook reader, your access can start immediately. Download Hoopla and Libby on your preferred device and start browsing now.

Unfortunately, not all winter blues ease with entertaining escapes. If this time of year feels darker outside and within, you are not alone. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a very real condition, and treatments are available. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn what might help. You may also consider our UV Therapy Happy Light, available for a two-week check out through our Beyond Books Collection. And, if you’d like someone to talk to or need help finding community resources, our Peer Support Specialist, Angela, is here for you. Learn more about this service at CRCPL.org/peersupport.

At the library, we don’t have all the answers. But we’re good at finding the ones we don’t know. We can connect you with materials, recommendations, resources, and maybe even each other. Attend a program, take home a game, or come in to get out of the cold. We’re here to help, no snow shoveling required.

Sheena Brown is an Enrichment, Communications, and Marketing Clerk at the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library.