A Summer Full of Color
What a colorful and unforgettable summer at Jefferson Hills Public Library! This year’ s Summer Reading Program, Color Our World, brought together dozens of young readers, families, and community members for a season full of creativity, learning, and fun.
Throughout June, July, and August, the library hosted weekly programs tailored for babies, toddlers, and elementary-aged children. Storytime and play engaged the youngest visitors, while toddlers enjoyed crafts paired with stories. Kids in kindergarten through sixth grade participated in stories, crafts, and hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Highlights included Field Day, ice cream making, art projects, and building challenges. Special guests made the summer even more memorable, including visits from the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, and the Allegheny County Health Department, each bringing unique and exciting experiences to the library.
Tweens enjoyed monthly Tween Takeovers featuring pizza, gaming, printmaking, LEGObuilding, and more. Additionally, Take Two Tuesdays offered one children’ s and one adult movie screening each month, paired with popcorn and a break from the heat.
Throughout the summer, participants could stop by weekly to have their reading logs checked and receive raffle tickets for summer reading baskets or tokens for the prize machine. In August, at the conclusion of the program, over 20 winners were drawn for the summer reading baskets.
The celebration wrapped up with a festive end-of-summer picnic. Families enjoyed food, outdoor games, crafts, and surprise treats from Rita’ s Italian Ice and Eat’ n Park.
Thank you to everyone who participated, attended programs, and logged reading time this summer. The library was buzzing with energy, and we’ re already looking forward to next year’ s adventures!
New Chapters at Jefferson Hills Public Library
Big things are happening at Jefferson Hills Public Library! Over the summer, the library welcomed two new team members who are already bringing fresh energy and new ideas to our space. Among the new hires are a Youth Services Librarian and a Programming Coordinator, both eager to build connections and enhance the library experience for patrons of all ages.
Blake McGee, Youth Services Librarian Blake recently joined the team and is eager to create early literacy experiences, engaging storytimes, and hands-on activities that inspire a love of reading in the youngest visitors.
“ I’ m thrilled to be the Youth Services Librarian at Jefferson Hills Public Library. After earning my Master’ s in Library and Information Science from Simmons University and growing up in the South Hills, I’ m excited to share my passion for books and learning with local families.”
Abby Diamond, Programming Coordinator
After contributing as a Patron Services Assistant and temporary children’ s librarian, Abby has transitioned into the role of Programming Coordinator. Abby works behind the scenes( and sometimes front and center!) to bring exciting programs and workshops to life for adults, teens, and multigenerational audiences. With a fresh calendar of offerings on the way, the second half of the year is shaping up to be a season filled with variety, from educational programs and crafting to guest speakers and community conversations.
“ I love the Jefferson Hills Public Library and the community we serve. It’ s exciting to take on this new role and connect even more deeply with patrons.”
Our library is always evolving, and these new additions to our staff are a big part of what makes Jefferson Hills Public Library such a welcoming, innovative space. Be sure to stop by, say hello, and see what’ s new!
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Get Crafty with Creativebug
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