The Roaring Spring Community Library More Than Books

The Roaring Spring Community Library has always been a conventional library offering traditional library services. Summer Reading, book clubs, story times, cultural programming and a wide variety of printed and digital resources have always been the backbone of not only RSCL but libraries across the world.

Over the years, and most recently in the ongoing pandemic, it became apparent that we needed to add services needed most in our community. We began to develop ideas and partnerships in order to bring those programs to the public. Through grant funding and donation support from many local and national business as well as service organizations we are able to provide those services to the local community and beyond. These community engagement programs include a weekly PopUp Pantry Food Giveaway, Fridge and Freezer in the Foyer, The Giving Garden and The Community Comfort Closet.

The PopUp Pantry Food Giveaway and the Fridge and Freezer in the Foyer are made possible by the generosity of many local donors and community service organizations. Some of the offerings have included fresh produce, canned goods, and dry pantry staples. We are also collaborating with Penn State Extension Blair County Food and Consumer Science Team to provide USDA SNAP-ED Programs. These informative and fun activities will be available once a month on Tuesdays. The Nutrition Education Advisor will be providing samples, recipes, and nutritional education to all those interested.

The Giving Garden is a way for the community to come together and learn how to not only grow fresh produce, but also meet new friends. Everyone from novice to master gardener is welcome!

We will also have a Penn State Master Gardener on hand to help answer questions and demonstrate different gardening techniques.

The Community Comfort Closet offers Winter Coat & Winter Gear Rack, feminine hygiene kits, personal hygiene kits, baby diapers, formula, PPE, and comfort kits for those experiencing housing insecurity, which include emergency tents, and blankets.

These awesome community engagement programs are for everyone! So stop by the Roaring Spring Community Library and see that there is so much more than books through our doors.