In the spirit of gratitude and reflection, the Adams County Library System looks back on a year marked by meaningful achievements and community collaboration. As we prepare to turn the page on 2023, we celebrate the milestones that have shaped our journey and extend our heartfelt appreciation to the invaluable supporters, dedicated volunteers, and steadfast partners who have made it all possible.
This year, we began on a high note with a successful fundraiser on National Library Giving Day, dedicated to expanding and updating our current children’s nonfiction collection. In a single day of generosity, we received over $8,000, enabling us to add more than 200 new books to our collection.
In June, we kicked off SummerQuest with FunFest, held at the Gettysburg Area Recreation Park. The event saw an impressive attendance of over 4,000 people! With over 40 tables, predominately hosted by nonprofit organizations in Adams County, FunFest provided a platform for community engagement. Each table featured a craft or activity aligned with the SummerQuest theme, allowing organizations to share their mission and contributions to the community.
A notable collaboration with the Gettysburg Area Recreation Park resulted in the installation of a permanent StoryWalk, made possible by the grant received from the Office of Commonwealth Libraries. With assistance from local Boy Scouts, the StoryWalk posts were strategically placed, offering an engaging way for both children and adults to enjoy reading while strolling through the Recreation Park. The story is refreshed monthly and is presented bilingually, promoting inclusivity for all.
Building on the success of the StoryWalk initiative, we aspire to create additional permanent StoryWalks in Carroll Valley and East Berlin. Through a concerted effort on #GivingTuesday, we raised $1,500 dedicated to Literacy Outreach and our StoryWalk Project. A grant from The Robert C. Hoffman Charitable Endowment Trust and a generous donation from Kiwanis in Gettysburg brings us closer to what we need to raise for this enriching project.
We are immensely grateful for the incredible response to our Annual Be a Dear campaign. These year-end donations are vital to programing and operational budgets.
Recently, we had the privilege of attending the Adams County Community Foundation’s GivingSpree Big Reveal event. We are delighted to share the exciting news that the Adams County Library System received a remarkable donation of $84,570 toward our Today and Forever funds. This contribution to our ongoing efforts enhances library services and benefits our community both now and in the future.
As we express our gratitude for the accomplishments over the past year, we look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. With the unwavering support of our community, we remain committed to fostering a love for learning and literacy throughout Adams County. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey.
Erica Duffy is Development Director at the Adams County Library System.
Even though I’m much more of a book buyer than book borrower, I’m surprised how often I encounter the library and its programs. It is such an important institution in this community.