Bow residents will soon have the opportunity to travel the world without leaving the comforts of 509 S. Street.

The Baker Free Library will soon begin its Armchair Traveler program, run by residents who will give presentations on trips they’ve taken in cooperation with the library’s “The World Visits Bow” theme for 2008.

So far, the library has organized events bringing information about Afghanistan and Japan, and a program about Russia is being planned for February.

“We are trying to open up other peoples’ experiences for people in town,” said Jen Leger, one of the librarians in charge of young adult and adult programs. “It’s a way for other people to travel around the world without even having to leave Bow.”

Individuals taking part in the program will bring in videos, photos, souvenirs or other items from their trip. Leger said two residents have approached her about taking part in the program, so it could start soon.

The programs on Afghanistan and Japan were well-attended, giving Leger optimism the newest event will be a success.

“It would be a great benefit for the library. It could bring in some people in town who would normally not visit the library,” said Leger. “By coming out to see these programs, maybe they would be exposed to some of the other great things the library has to offer.”

Continuing its world tour, Baker Free Library will also have Russian artist and lecturer Marina Forbes, who will teach guests about the Russian folk tradition of wooden nested doll painting.

On Saturday, Feb. 16, beginning at 10 a.m., Bow residents 10-years and older can purchase and paint the dolls and learn about other aspects of Russian culture.

Although the theme for the year is already set at the library, Leger said it can also be seen another way.

“Even though the theme this year is ‘The World Visits Bow,’ we want to turn it a little bit into Bow visiting the world,” said Leger. “There are so many interesting people in Bow who have traveled to a variety of places, and we want them to share their experiences.”