Last year I taught myself how to knit using Youtube tutorials. It was a great start but in no way could replace what a teacher can do for you. Then I met a librarian in Middlebury, Vermont who helped me over the summer. Mona was her name she was a great teacher and a joy to be around. I loved the library too, The Sarah Partridge East Library.
It's what you imagine a small town library to be. A small brick building surrounded with grass, wood floors that creaked and toys Mona had brought that once belonged to her (now grown) children. Mona knew the names of every person who walked in. Everyone stopped to chat about everything from farms burning to dental appointments. The children's section was great, cute chairs, plenty of books, just a cozy place to be... She had two helpers at the time one 8 years old (maybe) the other a high school senior. They chatted about the books, Mona explained the pen name Mark Twain to the youngest helper... It was great, I loved being there.
I was looking for another woman who had helped me at the local fiber store. She told me I could met her at the Sarah Partridge library on Tuesdays for more help. Being new to the area I didn't realize there were two locations.
I arrived at the East location to find Mona. I let her know who I was looking for and she let me know she was the only employee at that location. But she asked if she could help. I explained my situation and she had me take a seat right next to her and my knitting instruction began. I was so grateful to find her and so disappointed that I had only had two weeks left before I returned to AZ.
That summer I was able to return one more time before my trip back west... The infant hat I had been working on all summer (unraveled 5 times) was finally complete. Mona also gave me instructions for a sweater (I haven't been brave enough to attempt)...
Since then I had made several hats, and a few wash cloths. I still could use some more direction (knitting in the round, double pointed needles etc.)... Here in Tempe I have found a fiber store that I can pay to have individual instruction. I'm hoping to do that soon.
I am looking forward to taking Presley next summer to the Sarah Partridge East Library.