RUMFORD — Who knew that Mrs. Claus’ first name was Joy, or that she travels by dog sled?

That’s what she told nearly two dozen children and their parents who listened to her read Wednesday afternoon at the Rumford Public Library. She arrived on a dog sled pulled by lead dog Alyeska.

Dressed in a long bright red skirt and cap, a white blouse, and red and white shawl, Mrs. Claus sat down beside the library’s “fireplace” to read a Ukranian folk tale, among other selections.

“Santa is so busy. That’s why I had to come today,” she said.

Prior to Mrs. Claus’ visit, children made Christmas ornaments. Decorated cookies and punch were the sweet treats.

And when she completed her visit to Rumford Public Library, Mrs. Claus traveled to Rumford Hospital where she visited two small children.

But before she left the library, she drew the names of two children who came closest to guessing the number of pieces of candy in the pants and jacket of a Santa Claus created by children’s librarian Ginny Todd and assistant children’s librarian, Sue Marshall. Alison Legere guessed 50, when the actual number was 58, and Cassidy Webster guessed 70, when the actual number was 76.

As part of library director Luke Sorensen’s aim to get the community more involved in the library, a variety of other events have been held throughout much of December. Among them was raffling three gift baskets filled with merchandise from local businesses. Eligible winners had to have checked out a book or other item during the month. Sonia LaPointe, Jean Cormier and Serene Burt were the winners.

[email protected]