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Blackwater Regional Library (BRL) will host an Operation Santa Paws collection event from Nov. 22-Dec. 22. Collection boxes will be available in each BRL location to accept donations of dog and cat food, puppy and kitten food, toys, treats, blankets, towels and pet-safe cleaning supplies. 

BRL’s press release continued by noting that all donations will benefit animal shelters in the city of Franklin and the counties of Isle of Wight, Southampton, Surry and Sussex.

“The library is a central community hub throughout our service area,” Blackwater Regional Library Director Ben Neal said. “We are proud to come together to collect needed items for area shelters as part of Operation Santa Paws this holiday season.”

Operation Santa Paws began in 2001 in Long Beach, California, to meet the needs of rescue animals in local shelters. While donations are needed, and appreciated, time is also taken to remind communities of other ways to observe this annual event.

Officials highlighted the following ways to celebrating Operation Santa Paws: 

Thank an Animal Shelter Worker

This day is about the animals, but without the support of those individuals who love them and dedicate themselves to their welfare, there would be nowhere for them to go. When stopping by with a donation of supplies for the furry residents of the local shelter, don’t forget to bring down some tokens of thanks for these hard-working saviors of those favorite little beasties.

Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

During the cold, winter months, animal shelters have a tendency to become very full. Donating time to a shelter by volunteering can be just as useful as offering up toys, pet food or treats. Plus, it’s a great way to get to know the animals better and make a difference to them, not just at Christmas but all year-round.

Adopt a Pet from a Shelter

Of course, this step is not for everyone, but for those who feel they would make good animal parents, take this time of year to consider adopting a pet that needs a home.

Following is the location and contact information for BRL’s branches:

City of Franklin

Franklin Branch

280 N. College Drive, Franklin, VA 23851

757-562-4801

Isle of Wight County

Carrollton Branch

14362 New Towne Haven Lane, Carrollton, VA 23314

757-238-2641

Smithfield Branch

255 James Street, Smithfield, VA 23430

757-357-2264

Windsor Branch

18 Duke Street, Windsor, VA 23487

757-242-3046

Southampton County

Courtland Branch

22511 Main Street, Courtland, VA 23837

757-653-2821

Surry County

Claremont Branch

91 Mancha Avenue, Claremont, VA 23899

757-866-8627

Surry Branch

270 Colonial Trail East, Surry, VA 23883

757-294-3949

Sussex County

Wakefield Branch

100 Wilson Avenue, Wakefield, VA 23888

757-899-6500

Waverly Branch

125 Bank Street, Waverly, VA 23890

804-834-2192 

Blackwater Regional Library serves the counties of Isle of Wight, Southampton, Surry and Sussex, as well as the independent city of Franklin. Visit www.blackwaterlib.org for more information on the library’s services or go to tinyurl.com/BRLecard to sign up for a library card.