Library Programs and Special Events Sponsored by The Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Library budgeted over $75,000 to support Adult and Youth Services, Outreach and Staff Development in 2024. Here is a sample of some programs made possible by the Friends:
Adult Programs
- Idea Lab class materials and instructor fees enable patrons to learn new skills and hobbies.
- The Maker-in-Residence program provides experts to teach Idea Lab staff and offers public programs at all branches.
- NWPA Beehive Network, with grant support from the Erie Gaming and Revenue Authority with matching funds from the Friends, offers a chance to create and nurture a business idea.
- Erie Makes is a weeklong celebration of maker skills and local artists with fun, all-ages programming.
- The Career Online High School offers an opportunity to gain a high school diploma needed for career development and further education.
- HistERIE week with dozens of programs, help people connect to regional history and genealogy.
- Small Business Symposium provides vital information on how to start a small business including finances, accounting, intellectual property, and how to get a small business loan.
- Computer Classes, Genealogy classes, Yoga Classes and Craft Classes
- Book Clubs and the Summer Reading Program
Youth Programs
- STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Programs
- Book Clubs for early readers through teens.
- The Summer Reading Program, “Step Out and Read”, combines reading and wellness with fun family physical fitness and nutrition activities.
- Storytimes and craft programs
- Nerding Out at the Library, a special literary cosplay event.
- Civic Literacy Education helps youth learn about our elections system in a fun way.
- Teen Advisory Board and other activities offered at the Teen Space
- Pokémon League, Chess Club, Block Party, Building Buddies Brigade and Wee Build Block Party
| Outreach Programs |
The Friends support library outreach efforts at schools (like STEAM Nights, family engagement activities, and classroom visits) and community events plus provide program materials for the bookmobile. This year’s special events include the Solar Eclipse and Earth Day Extravaganza. The Friends also fund advertising and marketing materials, including giveaways and promotional items for outreach events.
Staff Development
The Friends support staff development by sponsoring attendance at American Library Association and Pennsylvania Library Association and other conferences, Staff Development Days, and Staff Recognition.
For a full schedule of Erie County Public Library programs offered see events.erielibrary.org