Samuels Library Plans Full September Schedule, From SamiCon to FOSL Book Sale

September is shaping up to be one of the busiest months of the year at Samuels Public Library, with something for nearly every age group and interest. Library staff members Pat Lopreto and Grace Green sat down in the Royal Examiner Studio to share details about the many programs coming up, including the return of SamiCon, the library’s popular celebration of comics and fandom.

The library will host its quarterly Q&A Forum on September 17 at 6 p.m., giving the public a chance to ask questions about library services, budgets, and programs. “This is the place to find out about what’s happening in your library — no rumors, just facts,” Lapreto said.

Just a few days later, on September 20, Royal Avenue will come alive with SamiCon 2025, the library’s signature family-friendly festival. This year’s theme is animation and cartoons. Festivities will include a scavenger hunt, escape room, costume contests, vendors, and themed activities. Green promised plenty of surprises for children and adults who attend in costume.

At the end of the month, the Friends of Samuels Library (FOSL) will host their annual fall book sale, set for September 26, 27, and 29. Shoppers will find tables full of gently used hardcovers and paperbacks, with prices ranging from a few cents to a few dollars. Proceeds support library programs and services.

Other September highlights include:

• Job Fair and Résumé Workshop – in partnership with Virginia CareerWorks, offering job seekers practical tools and advice.
• Genealogy Club – September 10, featuring conservator Christy Wright with tips on preserving family heirlooms, photos, and documents.
• Senior First Workshop – September 11, focusing on Medicare’s annual enrollment period, with one-on-one counseling available.
• Books and Beyond – September’s theme is historical, complementing the month’s focus on family history and preservation.
• Walkabout Wednesday – September 24 at 10:30 a.m., where Master Gardeners give tours and mini-lessons on the plants around the library.
• Teen Career Program – September 6, featuring staff from the Smithsonian Conservation Center discussing careers in science, illustration, and filmmaking.
• Shenandoah River State Park Field Trip – a naturalist-led program on pawpaws and other local treasures.
• Homeschool Hub – a hands-on lesson about plate tectonics using cookies as a teaching tool.

In addition, the library’s creative space, Studio 330, continues to offer weekly embroidery clubs, open studio hours, and beginner sewing workshops on September 17 and 24.

“September really is one of our fullest months,” Lapreto said. “Whether you’re looking for family fun, professional help, or just a good book bargain, the library has something for you.”

For more information on programs and schedules, visit www.samuelslibrary.net.