Library marches on

CLARKS SUMMIT — In spite of the challenges of a pandemic, the Abington Community Library is still serving as a hub of education and activity, described by many as a community gem.

The library closed during the pandemic, opening back up to in-person visits mid-June, with patrons screened at door, required to wear masks and respect social distancing. Visits were also limited to one hour.

But for those who feel uncomfortable coming into the library, staff offers a host of virtual activities and curbside delivery of materials.

Meeting community needs

Renee Roberts, the library’s project manager said the library was forced to close its doors on Mar. 16 last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, and the very next day offered a virtual story time on Facebook.

“Since March we have been offering virtual programs for all ages,” she said, “including virtual story times, book talks, science and math clubs, a teen reading club and adult lectures.”

Curbside pickup is not simply limited to books, but includes such items as raffle tickets and candy bars.

“Whatever you need, we can replicate it, so you don’t have to come inside,” Roberts said.

Items necessary to complete certain activities can be picked up at the library, so experiments and crafts can be completed from the comfort of home.

Craft bags for children, teens and adults are also a favorite, with special themes reflecting holidays and season.

Roberts pointed out that often crafts are available for the younger set, but that adults enjoy them just as much.

“So, an adult can do the craft with his or her children, or just by themselves,” she said.

The library has also continued to provide computer services and use of its copier for patrons.

Roberts emphasized the importance of access to computers, especially for those using it to access resources, complete job applications or simply keep informed.

Most recently the library has expanded its wi-fi to the parking lot, which is accessible at any time for anyone — so people always have a back up if their internet goes down or if they don’t have internet services at home.

Roberts said patrons have been exceedingly grateful for the library’s commitment to continuing to provide resources in the face of challenges of the past year.

Regular emails go out to the community to keep patrons informed of programming and activities.

Patrons of all ages also have access to the “Libby app” which they can download on their phones or devices and read ebooks or listen to audiobooks.

Music-themed fundraiser

After a year of minimal fundraising due to cancellations, Dalida Walton, the library board’s fundraising chair, said at a meeting of the Board of Trustees earlier this year that she wanted to do a huge fundraiser — bigger than any that had been done before.

Walton said she could see in the faces of the board members, a bit of doubt.

“We were in the midst of a pandemic. We didn’t know what 2021 would bring,” she said. “But they didn’t say no.”

Walton said her vision was of a high-end dinner and entertainment.

But, then board member John Baldino, who manages “Our Cabaret Productions,” suggested a cabaret dinner show comprised of book-themed music.

Walton couldn’t have been happier with the idea entitled “Songbook, a Musical Revue.” She believes that many of the songs presented at the event will be well known to those attending.

The fundraiser is scheduled to be held at Constantino’s on April 10. She anticipates that 200 people will attend the black-tie optional event.

Walton looks forward to a cocktail hour, followed by a nice dinner accompanied by entertainment.

She is fueled, she said, by a desire to help the library after a difficult year during which most fundraising activities were cancelled.

She is hoping to raise upwards of $20,000, much of will come through sponsorship from area businesses.

At $75 a seat, ticket sales will also add to the event’s profit, as well as the sale of “note” cards to be sold for $25 which will be displayed at the event in memoriam or in honor of others.

Walton cannot say enough about the small committee planning the event, who made it possible.

Of Roberts, she said, “she’s done anything I asked her to do.”

Profits from the benefit are to be used for general library needs, including programming, maintenance and furniture items.

Walton emphasized the necessity of the funds after a year of stalled fundraising due to the pandemic.

Businesses who would like to sponsor the event or those interested in purchasing tickets can contact Walton at domalley109@comcast.net or by phone at 570-430-8790.

Sponsorships range from a copper level at $250 through a platinum level at $2,500, with each level associated with a musical note and opportunity for varying levels of recognition.