As the Adams County Library celebrates its 80th anniversary, a year full of exciting programs and initiatives is underway, offering something for everyone in the community.
To kick off the celebrations, the library is launching an ambitious yearlong Book Reading Challenge. Starting on April 7 and running through December 31, the challenge encourages readers to tackle 80 of the most popular books in the library’s collection. Participants can track their progress through the Beanstack app or on the library website.
If books aren’t available at a local branch, the library offers an interlibrary loan service to ensure no one misses out. With both adult and children’s books on the list, this challenge is perfect for all ages, and participants can look forward to exciting prizes.
Also starting April 7, join the fun with Business Book Cover Bingo, hosted by 24 stores around Gettysburg. Bingo cards will be available at the desks in the Gettysburg Branch, each featuring a selection of children’s book covers. To play, participants will visit the participating businesses to find which book cover each store has on display and mark it on their card. Once they get Bingo, they’ll be eligible for small prizes, and everyone who participates will be entered into a drawing for a final grand prize. It’s a great way to explore and support our local businesses while having some literary fun!
The celebrations will continue with the much-anticipated Fun Fest. Set for June 13, the 8th annual event will bring hundreds of children, parents, booths, and vendors to the Gettysburg rec park. Funfest promotes community engagement, raises awareness about local organizations, and provides a fun learning experience for all ages. The event also serves as a kickoff for SummerQuest, the Adams County Library’s free summer learning and adventure program for children and adults.
Fun Fest will also feature two major reveals tied to the library’s anniversary. While the details are a closely guarded secret, library staff promise these announcements will be worth the wait.
One of the library’s most beloved events, the Human Library Program, will take place from April 27 to May 3 across all six library branches. This unique program allows community members to “check out” real people who share their personal stories, fostering empathy and understanding. The program will include both one-on-one sessions and group discussions, encouraging dialogue and breaking down barriers.
April is also National Library Month, with National Library Week running from April 6–12. The library is marking this occasion with special appeals, including a Spring Appeal asking for $80 donations in honor of the library’s 80 years of service. Funds raised will support the children’s and juvenile collections.
The library also recently participated in National Library Giving Day, hosting an online fundraiser to support its initiatives.
In addition to these celebratory events, the library continues to thrive, offering a diverse range of programs that reflect its growing role in the community. You can see the Library’s 2024 Annual Report here. The library system has seen a significant increase in program attendance and participation since 2021, a testament to the library’s evolving impact on the lives of Adams County residents.
With so much going on, there’s never been a better time to get involved and celebrate the library’s rich history and exciting future. Whether you’re participating in the Book Challenge, attending Fun Fest, or taking part in the Human Library Program, the Adams County Library offers countless opportunities for growth, learning, and community connection as it turns 80.
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.