Waynesboro Library Unveils Diverse September Program Lineup for All Ages

The Alexander Hamilton Memorial Free Library in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, has announced an extensive schedule of free programs and events throughout September, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups. From early literacy and creative arts for children to career assistance, financial literacy, and philosophical discussions for adults, the library aims to provide enriching experiences for the entire community. Many of these events require registration due to limited space, and residents are encouraged to contact the library to secure their spot.

Younger patrons can look forward to the Kids Book Club, meeting on September 16th, where participants in grades K-5 will engage with “Pug Diaries 4.” Creative exploration is a key focus for youth programs, with the Jr. Art Adventure on September 17th offering elementary students an opportunity to experiment with various artistic styles. Teens aged 12-18 also have a dedicated art program, the Teen Art Adventure, scheduled for the same day. Later in the month, on September 22nd, children in grades K-5 can delve into the science of slime-making at the “Slime Masters” workshop.

The library is also offering a variety of activities specifically for teenagers. The Teen Game Night on September 15th will feature popular card games like Flip 7 and Exploding Kittens, accompanied by snacks. On September 22nd, the Teen Craft Cafe invites teens to unleash their creativity by painting old vinyl records and CDs, while enjoying refreshments. A unique event, the library’s first Rubber Duck Cosplay Contest, is slated for September 29th as part of the Teen Fandom Club, encouraging teens to dress up a rubber duck as a fictional or real character for a chance to win prizes. Supplies for this creative endeavor will be provided, and international snacks will be available for tasting. In a special collaboration, the library and Renfrew Museum and Park will host “Bricks to Books” on September 30th, where participants aged 8 and older can paint bricks to resemble books for garden decoration. This event requires registration at the library.

Adults have a wealth of options for learning and engagement this September. For those seeking creative outlets, the Hooks & Needles crafting group meets on September 10th, providing a casual environment for knitters, crocheters, and other crafters to share projects and tips. A relaxing neurographic art session, focusing on self-expression and calm through flowing lines and vibrant colors, is scheduled for September 10th. For bibliophiles, the Book Club will discuss Allen Levi’s “Theo of Golden” on September 25th, with copies available at the library’s front desk. An engaging Book Bingo event, offering a chance to win books, will take place on September 24th.

Several programs are designed to enhance well-being and practical life skills. Gentle chair yoga sessions, suitable for all abilities, are offered every Friday in September (excluding September 18th) with instructors from Focused Action Yoga and WBO Health and Fitness. The library also provides a vital QPR Training session on suicide prevention on September 23rd, teaching participants how to recognize warning signs and offer help. For those interested in financial matters, Edward Jones financial advisor Frank Pinto will lead a “Money Talks” session on budgeting on September 8th. The library will also host a workshop on September 26th to explain how the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help with energy costs.

Community and intellectual discussions are also on the agenda. The Genealogy Club meets on September 2nd for informal discussions among enthusiasts. Socrates Cafe, a global philosophical discussion group, will convene on September 3rd and September 17th, offering a space for thoughtful exchanges on various ideas. Timely Conversations on September 15th will address important end-of-life planning topics, including medical and financial directives. For those looking to improve their digital literacy, a beginner-friendly Computer & Internet Basics class is scheduled for September 29th, covering fundamental skills such as using a mouse, navigating the web, and managing email.

The library also offers significant support for job seekers. Employment Assistance Services are available every Saturday in September (and continuing into October, with no sessions on October 3rd or 24th), providing help with resumes, cover letters, and job applications. Interested individuals can schedule private appointments via email. For those who enjoy strategic thinking, the Gamesboro Gaming Group meets on September 5th and September 19th, focusing on exploring history through strategy board games. Chess enthusiasts aged 9 and up can join a Chess Club session on September 12th, with instruction available for beginners.

Several programs are designed to encourage an active lifestyle and community connection. The “Walking Librarian: Waynesboro Walk & Talk” series continues throughout September, with casual strolls around Renfrew Park every Monday morning, starting September 14th. These walks are free and open to adults. Finally, the library will host its “Speakeasy Night Fundraiser” on September 12th, a 1920s-themed event featuring food, drinks, live music, an escape room, and a silent auction to support the library’s free programs. Tickets for the fundraiser are priced at $75 each, with a special “Daisy Deal” for five tickets at $330.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Alexander Hamilton Memorial Free Library

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