Arnprior Public Library’s Mandy Taylor has been making more Elbows Up pins due to high demand. Library officials say they’ve probably distributed close to 200 of the pins in just one day. (Arnprior Public Library photo)
A little campaign at the Arnprior Public Library is drumming up big support for Canada.
Across this country, people are pushing back against U.S. President Donald Trump’s back and forth tariff threats and calls for Canada to become the 51st state.
Head librarian CEO Karen DeLuca said they always work on making timely (and ‘punny’) bookmarks and buttons so, inspired by the Elbows Up movement, they have created book displays, bookmarks and the pins at the centre of the contest the library is running.
For those who don’t know, the slogan originates from Mr. Hockey.
The pins, it turns out, are a big hit.
Members of the public are invited to pick up a pin for free at the library and wear it with pride.
DeLuca sai they’re hoping to see hundreds around town.
“Take a selfie while wearing your Elbows Up pin (at the shops, walking the dog, reading a book, at the car wash, at a hockey game – you get the idea!,” reads a social media post. “The important part is to tag the Arnprior Library.”
DeLuca explains that the generosity of the public sparked an initiative to support local and Canadian businesses with the proceeds of the donations.
Those tagging ( @arnpriorlibrary on Facebook and/or Instagram) or sending in photos are eligible to win one of three gift baskets containing such iconic Canadian items as Maple Syrup, Canadian stickers, potato chips, hockey tape, Red Rose tea and more.
And any donations are funneled back into purchase of more gift cards for the prize baskets.
So far, the library has purchased gift certificates from: Mighty Fine Bakehouse, White Pine Books, Dianne Rodger jewelry, Ottawa Valley Coffee House, Green Bean Natural Foods, O’Brien Theatre, Giant Tiger and Canadian Tire. To come are Hart, Home Hardware and Rona and the list will expand as donations roll in.
Each of the three gift basket prizes will have at least $80 of coupons – and likely more as people are still donating.
DeLuca says the enthusiasm for the campaign has caught staff a bit off guard and more pin making components have been ordered from their supplier in Napanee.
To what does she attribute the overwhelming response to the initiative?
The contest runs until the end of the month – draws will take place March 31.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)
