Category: First 2 Know

By: Barry Ernest

Over the years and seasons the iconic tree in front of the East Shore Area Library marked its growth together with the branch, each providing a cozy place to read or escape the heat of a sunny day. Long past a sapling, the aged symbol of the property fulfilled its destiny as a giving tree of sorts, falling quickly, but not quietly, to a landscaping team of tree cutters putting idea into action.

The tree’s removal has given birth to a planned community pavilion – and its absence honored by a future with increased visitors and community activities in its former footprint.

What’s ahead for the green space at the front of the building?

Work is underway to transform the property into a vibrant multi-function outdoor activities area. The free-standing expansion is designed to provide additional casual seating in a green area setting for both staff and public gatherings.

The pavilion serves a need for more space. Indoor meeting rooms used by both the public and library programs frequently reach capacity and main-floor seating for patrons is often at a premium at East Shore.

The project helps the library continue to expand its programming and outreach in the community. The goal is to offer patrons shared experiences in a newly designed green area.

Its space will host library-related programs and events, including Charlie Cart, a mobile kitchen that helps to teach kids how to cook while providing the knowledge necessary for a beneficial diet and healthy eating.

While library staff aims to expand and diversify its educational programming in the space, this project will also allow patrons to be able to enjoy their usual library activities –study, read, or just relax – all within an outdoor library atmosphere.

Outdoor events like music and art initiatives, and the potential for resuming a summer lunch program, are anticipated for the new area as well. “The options are practically endless,” says Maria Lagasca, Public Services Director.

Although its iconic tree is gone, East Shore has plans to make the space even greener. The tree is scheduled to be replaced with native plants, a butterfly garden, and even more shade, while making an inviting area with less maintenance worries.

Plans call for partnering with Friends of the East Shore Area Library (FESAL) and local gardening organizations to establish an on-site community garden.

The pavilion project to expected next summer.

By: Maria Lagasca, Public Services Director

As the world continues to evolve and embrace modernization, public libraries are transforming alongside it. Despite operating with limited funding and facing pressure to keep pace with rapidly advancing technologies and competition from for-profit entities, libraries have found innovative ways to thrive. Across the United States, many have not only embraced creativity but also expanded their services through strong community partnerships.

For instance, Salt Lake County Library offers its members access to enriching cultural experiences at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, the Clark Planetarium, and the Natural History Museum of Utah. Meanwhile, libraries in Maine and Minnesota have broadened their reach by providing passes to state parks, encouraging exploration and learning beyond the library walls and beyond books, magazines, and scholarly articles.

Dauphin County Library System (DCLS) is following this trend, setting the pace among central Pennsylvania libraries—embracing innovation, leading with purpose, and proudly celebrating Library Card Sign-up Month with this year’s inspiring theme: ‘One Card, Endless Possibilities.’  Over the past year, DCLS has expanded its community impact through innovative partnerships:

• Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra (HSO): First-time attendees can enjoy complimentary tickets, offering a welcoming introduction to the arts without financial barriers.
• Theatre Harrisburg: Library cardholders receive discounted tickets to Murder on the Orient Express, making live theater more accessible.
• Susquehanna Art Museum (SAM): Through a partnership launched in 2024, DCLS members enjoy free admission, encouraging exploration of meaning through visual art.

These collaborations reflect DCLS’s commitment to building community and transforming lives by connecting people, ideas, and opportunities.

While funding remains a central topic among library leaders, it will not stand in the way of DCLS setting the standard for community, communication, respect, integrity, support, and service. Our communities will not be left behind. Instead, we’re embracing creativity and reimagining the role of public libraries—seeing their power far beyond shelves of books. That small plastic library card opens doors not only to information, but to cultural experiences once considered exclusive to high achievers. It’s a key to opportunity, equity, and imagination.

Our partnerships thrive because of the incredible support from our community partners and library members—thank you for your unwavering commitment. As we continue to innovate, we invite everyone to discover the richness of our community with your DCLS Library card in hand. 

Fall is here, and so are new Library programs for every age! Here’s a quick peek at what we have to offer kids and families as the weather cools off:

Storytimes & Early Learning

preschooler (or all three!) thinking, learning, and building the foundation of their literacy development. We’ve even started doing a few story-times at offsite locations. Don’t miss:

• Stories at Sunset – East Shore Area Library (evening storytime)
• Mathamagical Storytime – Northern Dauphin Library
• Once Upon a Rainbow – 1st Saturdays at the LGBT Center of Central PA
• Stories at Midtown – 2nd Saturdays at Midtown Scholar Bookstore

After-School Adventures

• Owls are a Hoot! – Learn about owls & dissect pellets
• Engineering Simple Bots – Build & test mini-robots
• PA Geology Rocks! – Explore Pennsylvania’s rocks & minerals with DCNR

Check the Fall Compass or DCLS.org/Events for dates and locations.

Teens Take Over

Fresh looks & creative outlets await:

• Teen Fall Clothing Swap – Saturday, Sept. 20 (12–4 PM) at East Shore Area Library
• Coloring for Teens – Chill afternoons with color & creativity
• Zines for Teens – Create & share your own mini-magazines

There’s More!

This is just a sample of all the fun waiting for you at The Library this fall. Visit the DCLS Events page or stop by your local Library to explore the full calendar of programs and events.