Samuel’s Public Library Gears Up for Busy August of Learning, Laughter, and Community

From line dancing and balloon art to Medicare help and wildlife education, August is shaping up to be another lively month at Samuel’s Public Library. Adult Reference Librarian Rachel Roman and Children’s Librarian Machal Ashby share the exciting programs coming to the library, as well as the community spirit that’s making it all possible.

While July was packed with special events, August will see the return of many of the library’s regular offerings, but with a few surprises.

“We’re still doing all our regular programs,” said Roman, “but there are some new and special events coming up too.”

One August highlight is “What the Tech”, a session where Front Royal Police will visit the library to talk about online scams and how to avoid them. It’s part of the library’s effort to keep residents informed and safe in the digital age.

Other adult programs include Seniors First, which will help older adults navigate Medicare and Medigap coverage. One-on-one counseling will be available by appointment.

“We’re also doing a special sewing project this month,” said Roman. “Instead of our usual ‘Sewing 101,’ we’ll be making aprons.” The String Theory fiber arts group continues to meet on Saturdays, and line dancing is still on the schedule as well.

For teens and children, the energy is just as high. Ashby said the summer reading season is wrapping up with two big programs: a wildlife program on Thursday, and a visit from Mr. Mike’s Great Big Balloons on Friday. The balloon artist combines giant balloon sculptures with magic tricks, offering something entirely new for local families.

“This has been our busiest summer ever in the Children’s Department,” said Ashby. “We’ve had a packed house almost every day.”

She credits much of that success to the support from the Front Royal Elks Lodge, which has sponsored programs and helped fund activities for 20 years.

“They’re not a group that asks for attention, but they deserve credit,” Ashby said. “They’ve helped us do more than we ever could have on our own.”

Community Partnerships Continue to Grow

One of the newest partnerships is with Shenandoah River State Park, which recently hosted a library-led educational program on gundalos, flat-bottomed boats used in early American rivers. Attendees worked in teams to build their own model boats and even raced them in the river.

“We had one team use wood for ballast, another used stones. Each one was different,” said Ashby. “They learned about history, engineering, and teamwork, and it was just plain fun.”

The partnership will continue year-round with additional programs at the park and reciprocal visits from park rangers at the library.

The state park is even waiving entrance fees for families attending library events, a donation valued at over $200.

Back to School, But Still Lots to Do

As summer winds down and school begins, the library will resume its regular children’s programs:

• Music and Movement Mondays
• Homeschool Hub and Mix It Up Tuesdays
• Storytime Wednesdays, now led by Ashby and often featuring crafts, songs, and special guests
• Toddler Trails Fridays, with August’s theme being “Wild About Wind,” including a lesson and a take-home wind chime project

The Teen Chess Club meets regularly and draws between 8 and 15 players per session, depending on the week. Ashby says the teens love the challenge.

“Once they learn the basics, they get hooked. And many of them are really good,” she said.

Looking Ahead to SamiCon

Coming in September is SamiCon, the library’s annual fan convention and pop culture event. This year’s theme is “Celebrate a Decade in Motion”, with a focus on animation.

Each librarian is taking a different piece of animation history. Ashby, for instance, is diving into the legacy of Cartoon Network, inspired by her childhood love of Scooby-Doo.

Costume ideas are already being discussed, and the event promises to be one of the biggest yet.

Library Still Growing in Surprising Ways

Roman noted that the Studio 330 makerspace remains popular, offering tools for digitizing photos and VHS tapes, as well as crafting and DIY projects.

“People come in, create something cool, and then share it online. It’s great to see that excitement,” Roman said.

And beyond the scheduled events, the library continues to serve as a hub for all ages, offering a range of activities, from board games and books to seed lending and art displays.

“We want people to know this is their library,” said Ashby. “If you’re new to the community, I’m happy to give you a tour. Come see the garden, the children’s area, everything we have to offer.”

Getting a Library Card Is Simple and Free

To sign up, all that’s needed is proof of ID and address, and the process is completely free. Even those outside Warren County can apply for reciprocal privileges.

Ashby and Roman closed the interview by thanking the community and encouraging new residents to get involved.

“There’s so much going on here,” Roman said. “It’s not just books, it’s a place to connect, learn, and grow.”

Samuel’s Public Library is located at 330 East Criser Road in Front Royal. To explore the full calendar of programs or sign up for events, visit www.samuelslibrary.net.