2 UPCOMING CLOSINGS EPL opens program registration at various times according to age group. Adult Programs: Registration opens simulatenously on August 4. Kid, Family Programs: Registration opens four weeks prior to program date. Tween, Teen Programs: Registration opens four weeks prior to program date. www.elyrialibrary.org A Note from the Director Library News Central Keystone South West River Outreach Collections Friends IN THIS ISSUE 2 3 4-6 7-8 9 10-12 13 14 15 PROGRAM REGISTRATION Labor Day September 1 Staff Development October 24 Thanksgiving (EPL closes at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 26th) November 27 Christmas December 24 - 25 New Year’s Day (EPL closes at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31) January 1 DEAR FRIENDS, We’re turning the page—and starting an exciting new chapter together! You may have noticed some changes taking shape at Elyria Public Library. From fresh visuals to a brand-new tagline, we’re embracing a rebranding effort that reflects who we are and who we serve: you. Our new tagline, "Always a Place for You," captures the heart of our mission. Whether you visit to discover your next great read, get a document notarized, bring the kids in your life to a fun program, or just to spend time in a comfortable spot away from home, you belong at your library. To mark this transition, we invite you to join us on Saturday, September 6, for a joyful community celebration. Enjoy a carnival of characters, games, and family-friendly activities as we celebrate our new branding and embrace the future together. This season also brings a significant farewell. Our Deputy Director, Kathy Runser, is retiring after nearly 32 years of dedicated service. Kathy’s leadership and care have shaped so much of what makes our library system strong, and we are deeply thankful for her legacy. I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Jessica Schneider for her dedicated service on the Elyria Public Library Board of Trustees as her elected term comes to a close. Her commitment and contributions have been deeply appreciated. As her seat is one of three recent openings, I’m pleased to share that the Board will welcome three new trustees this August: Jeffrey Breese, Stori Zinkhann, and Dwayne Redding. We are grateful to all our trustees—both new and continuing—for their thoughtful leadership and stewardship on behalf of the community. We recently celebrated the opening of a “Story Stroll” in Elyria’s West Park, a fun early literacy experience created in collaboration with the United Way of Greater Lorain County, the City of Elyria Parks and Recreation and through the leadership of the Ready Set Go… to Kindergarten collaborative. It’s a meaningful step in supporting early learning and outdoor play. In addition, we are preparing for a major infrastructure project: the full replacement of the HVAC system at our West River location. Work is expected to begin this fall with a target completion in spring 2026. We know that the air conditioning has been underperforming, and we sincerely appreciate your patience as we’ve worked to keep the building as comfortable as possible in the meantime. This important project has been made possible in part by State Senator Nathan Manning, who secured a grant through the One Time Strategic Community Investment Fund (OTSCIF) program. We extend our heartfelt thanks for this vital support. Thank you for being part of our story. No matter who you are or what you’re looking for—there’s always a place for you at EPL. Warmly, Jen Starkey
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