Support Libraries and Authors at Lackawanna, Lycoming County Events

In the coming weeks, Lackawanna and Lycoming counties will host events that offer residents the chance to engage with local literary talents and support community libraries. These events promise to be both entertaining and enriching for attendees.

The Valley Community Library in Peckville is kicking things off with its annual fundraising event, Books Appétit, on May 7. Attendees can expect an evening filled with music, food, drinks, and raffle prizes, all set within the library itself.

Books Appétit: A Celebration for a Cause

Kristen Wallo, Director of the Valley Community Library, expressed excitement over the growth of Books Appétit, stating that the event has expanded “exponentially” each year. “We close the library a little early that day, and we basically have this big party for the community. We turn our circulation desk into a bar,” she explained. “We’ve got local beer and wine and lots of food donated by local restaurants, and we’re going to have live music and a photo booth, and it’s a really great time.”

This year’s event, which begins at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, will feature live performances by the Wannabees, over 100 raffle baskets, a block pool, and unique cocktails crafted by Wallo herself. The event is open to those 21 and over, with tickets priced at $35 in advance and $40 at the door. However, Wallo recommends purchasing tickets ahead of time to secure entry, as availability at the door is not guaranteed.

With more than 200 attendees expected, the fundraiser plays a crucial role in supporting the library’s $50,000 operational budget, with last year’s event alone raising $28,000. These funds are essential for preparing for the library’s summer programs and other initiatives. “It comes at the perfect time, because right now we’re going to need to be preparing for summer and a whole bunch of other things happening at the library,” Wallo added. “So we appreciate all of the community support at this time.”

Wallo expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the community’s participation, noting, “It really warms my heart to see all these people come … to support the library. I know there’s so many people who see this event as a yearly tradition. It really means a lot to us.”

Spotlight on Regional Talent at Storytellers Book Fair

On May 15, Lycoming Arts will host the Storytellers Book Fair, highlighting regional authors and illustrators. Committee Chair Alivia Tagliaferri highlighted the fair’s focus, saying, “We’re really trying to foster connection with local authors.”

The event will take place from 4 p.m. at the Pennington Lounge at Lycoming College. Attendees can meet 17 local authors, participate in a book swap, and enjoy themed activities such as the “Novel Treasures” raffle baskets and an “Uncork the Unknown” mystery wine pull.

Event passes are $25, which include one raffle ticket and a door prize entry, with proceeds supporting Lycoming Arts.

Featured discussions include author PJ Piccirillo’s talk on his novel “The Indigo Scarf” and John Shableski’s insights into the publishing world. The book fair will also launch the Open Book Society, a book club focusing on local authors, starting with Piccirillo’s work.

Tagliaferri, who will also present her own children’s books at the fair, expressed her enthusiasm for meeting fellow authors: “I just really enjoy learning about the authors that are, you know, in my backyard, and the works that they’ve created. I’m looking forward to meeting them in person.”