… to books and so much more
Midway through the Friends of the Osterhout Book Sale, which is held each June, there is a day devoted to children. Giant bubbles courtesy of ‘That Bubble Guy’ Mark Krokos were part of a Children’s Day, along with crafts, ice cream and the chance to buy children’s books by the bagful.
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The children’s wing at the Osterhout Library has a cozy nook perfect for story time.
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Programs at the library that are designed especially for teens offer a chance to socialize as well as lessons in such practical skills as cooking and planning a budget.
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Young library patrons follow the leader in singing a song, complete with hand motions.
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Kids and their grown-ups had a lesson in nutrition at the Osterhout Library.
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A library card entitles you to borrow all sorts of materials from any of the libraries in the Luzerne County Library System.
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This September, the Luzerne County Library System invites all county residents to celebrate Library Card Sign‑Up Month and discover how a library card can hit all the right notes — no matter your interests or tastes.
Formed in 1984, the system continues to offer a network of 10 libraries that are open to every resident thanks to the support of Luzerne County. Throughout the month, residents without a library card are encouraged to sign up for a free one by visiting any location in person or applying online.
A list of member libraries and the online application can be found at www.luzernelibraries.org. During September, libraries will also waive fees for overdue items and lost library cards. Fees will still apply for damaged or lost library materials.
Library Card Sign‑Up Month has been celebrated nationwide each September since 1987 to mark the start of the school year, combat illiteracy, and encourage communities to explore everything a library card unlocks.
With a library card, you can do far more than check out books. From free classes and job resources to homework help, streaming media, and cultural events, today’s libraries connect communities to information, inspiration, and each other.
This year’s theme, “A Library Card Hits All the Right Notes,” is a reminder that libraries offer something for everyone — no matter your age, background, or goals. Whether you’re checking out a classic story or trying something new, finding harmony at a library program, focusing in a study space, or composing your future with new skills, there’s always a front‑row seat waiting for you. Your library card is the ticket.
The Osterhout Free Library serves as the headquarters for the Luzerne County Library System. While each member library is locally run and deeply connected to its community, shared services are coordinated through the Osterhout. A daily delivery service moves more than 150,00 items around the county each year, ensuring that residents in Pittston have the same access to Hazleton’s collections — and vice versa. The online catalog, where users can search for books, digital resources, and download e‑books, is also managed there.
The system partners with Luzerne Learns to ensure library resources support people at every stage of their career journey, from students exploring their futures to current workers building new skills to those seeking a fresh path in the world of work.
In addition to organizing systemwide services, the Osterhout is the home library for the Greater Wilkes‑Barre Area and develops programs and resources tailored to local residents. Its dedicated local history and genealogy librarian helps patrons navigate specialized collections, and its staff offers a wide range of programs for children, teens, adults, families, and seniors. At the Osterhout, library visitors will find a large collection of books and other informational collections as well as a diverse array of special interest programs for all ages.
All Luzerne County Libraries share a commitment to access, learning, and community — but each brings its own special touches that reflect the needs of the people it serves. This September, B sharp and sign up for a library card. Visit any Luzerne County Library System location or apply online at www.luzernelibraries.org to get your card today.
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Rick Miller is executive director of the Osterhout Free Library in downtown Wilkes-Barre, which serves as headquarters for the Luzerne County Library System.