Santa visits the 33rd Christmas Tree Festival at the Putnam County District Library

OTTAWA, OH (WLIO) - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas over at the Putnam County Library in Ottawa.

After recently finishing up renovations, the library opened its doors this evening for kids to come paint ornaments while telling Santa what they wanted for Christmas.

But the holiday cheer didn't stop there; those in attendance were also able to take in the 33rd annual Christmas tree festival thanks to the strong contributions from Nancy Kline, Beth Myers, and the friends of the district library that showcased a variety of trees decorated by local residents.

"Tonight, we are having the opening of our annual Christmas Tree Festival, and we have Santa here. We also have where the children can paint an ornament and have cookies and drinks. When Santa came in, the kids were so excited when he said, Ho, ho, ho, and that's a wonderful feeling," said Kelly Ward, Director of the Putnam County Library—Ottawa.

"There are 55 trees here, and they are donated by the area families, and all of the entities around town are excited to see them," told Melanie Lauth, Library Board President.

Library Board Secretary Chelsie Niese added, "The very first one was in 1988, so we are very excited to be continuing that since then. 33 years of doing this, and we are very excited that we can continue it every year for Putnam County and local communities."

Throughout the month, the library will hold holiday-themed events. For more information, you can visit their website.