The Irene Ingle Public Library is reaching out to area experts in various fields to share their knowledge and talents with the rest of the community.

Michelle Clark, the library’s programming coordinator, said the initiative aims to gather volunteers with expertise in the arts, writing, crafts and vocational fields to lead future workshops at the facility.

“We thought it would be cool to pull local talent to focus on skills that may be hidden within the community and that would be something we could draw from without having to look beyond the community, in order to bring people in to speak for different workshops,” she said.

She noted that many residents specialize in artistic hobbies and traditional craftwork, such as leatherwork, beading and regalia making. She added that she is also hoping to possibly organize a poetry event.

In September, the library will host a comic book writing workshop presented by 80% Studios, a Seattle-based company. The program will teach participants how to create their own comic books and graphic novels using digital media.

Clark stepped into the coordinator role on July 14, following the departure of coordinator Chana Garrett, who moved out of state. She proposed the talent-sharing initiative out of a personal passion for lifelong learning and community collaboration.

“I would love to see some of the local cultural influences come in and teach things like beading and carving and leather work,” she said. “There’s a great deal of knowledge along those cultural lines here that I think would be wonderful to share with more people.”

Clark plans to start scheduling events on the library calendar as early as September. Most adult-focused workshops will likely take place during evenings and weekends to accommodate work schedules.

“There is more flexibility for program times that are set for younger kids,” she said. “It's possible that some of those might be able to be scheduled for an afternoon.”

Anyone interested in presenting or sharing their expertise is encouraged to contact her by email at mclark@wrangell.com or by phone at 907-874-3535.

“I feel like we can have some really good workshops with many different residents here,” she said. “I’m excited to work with some of our local talent.”