10/17/2026
Huge ‘Thank You’ for Another Fantastic Giant Pumpkin Party!
By Lisa Carroll
GRAHAMSVILLE—The thing about small town communities—that really pulls on the heartstrings—is the sheer amount of support we offer each other in hopes of successful outcomes. And, Grahamsville is no exception.
There wouldn’t be a Giant Pumpkin Party, let alone 40 years’ worth, if it weren’t for the generosity, time, dedication and efforts of the community at large. From the library staff, volunteers and board members to our local community organizations to all the fabulous Tri-Valley CSD students who pitched a hand to bring our dreams of another successful GPP to fruition—we thank you!
We all shared in an amazing day. The weather was perfect, the festivities were amazing, guests, friends and families all had a great day filled with memories, laughter and love. Who could ask for anything better?
It’s that coming together that just proves how valued our library is in the community, and mutually, of course, how much we value our patrons! And it’s not just a one and done scenario; but, time and time again. Our programs are well received, our events well attended and our library services used and beloved. All of which is so very important to the continued longevity and success of our library specifically and all libraries in general. It’s easy to say you support libraries from the comfort of your home, it’s harder to make the trek down and carry picnic tables around a fairground or to attend an evening program or to get to a weekend library event.
And, of course, every checked-out book!
So, in short, thank you for your continued support. Thank you for showing up, for pitching in, and for believing in our importance within the community; we cherish it.
Now, in other news:
Our Fall Children’s Programs went off without a hitch last week. We have nearly 50 children participating this season, and that doesn’t count the three Tri-Valley Elementary UPK classes we started visiting this week (which is roughly another 60 students). So, that means almost 110 students will be spending the next 7 weeks experiencing storytelling, books and
activities centered around the joys of literacy, developing social skills and having a great time!
Registrations are already pouring in for our fabulous fall LEGO programs. Brick by Brick: Autumn Architects will be running on Wednesdays: October 21, October 28 and November 4 from 3:00-4:00PM here at the library. Haunted House Builders is for students in grades 4-6 will meet on October 21. Students will build (either independently or in teams) a spooky haunted house. They’ll be tasked with creating rooms, characters, secret passageways, traps and at least one moving feature. Fall Adventure, for students in grades 2 and 3, will meet on October 28. These students will use LEGO bricks to complete a series of fun fall-themed building challenges. And finally, Thanksgiving/ Fall Feast, a program designed for students in kindergarten and grade 1 who will build a table fit for a feast, seasonal farm or celebration. Programs are open to Tri-Valley residents only with advanced registration (on our website) required. If you wish for your child to take the bus from school, please send a note to the elementary office no later than the Monday before the registered program.
There will be another Medicare 101 Zoom Webinar on Wednesday, October 21 from 6:00-8:00PM. Learn about eligibility, how and when to enroll, when to make changes, and the insurance options available to you…and so much more, from presenter James Farnham, MBA, MS licensed agent. This free educational program will shine the light on the mysteries of the Medicare system and help to alleviate some of the stress. Please register on our website and an email with the zoom link and instructions will be sent to you.
We’re all about keeping our patrons well informed! So, here’s two more amazing opportunities. On Thursday, October 22 the H.E.A.L Mobile will be back! From 9:00AM-12:00PM, patrons and visitors alike can access free health screenings, assessments and education, help in applying for SNAP and health insurance, referrals to health providers, and access to important resources like substance use support, prescription deconstruction kits and hygiene kits. Then, on Friday, October 23 from 10:00AM to 1:00PM, the ACCESS Mobile Grocery will be here to provide free shelf-stable, fresh and refrigerated foods as well as access to other resources. All are welcome to utilize the services of H.E.A.L and ACCESS and there’s no registration required. Just show up!
On Friday, October 30, from 1:30-3:00PM, local artist Chris Parrow will lead a water color painting program. After registering online, Tri-Valley adult residents can attend this informative program where Chris will help attendees explore the world of floral still life. You will learn all about brushwork, composition, color, color mixing and the spontaneous nature of watercolor paint. No experience is necessary for this fun program, however there is a $5.00 supply fee due during class.
And that brings us to November.
We’re holding our popular 5 Hour Pre-licensing Class presented by La June Black of J & J Driving School on Saturday, November 14 from 10:00AM to 3:00PM. This course, which requires advanced registration and is $45 per student, meets the NYS mandatory course requirement for permit holders looking to get their license. Students must hold a NYS “photo” permit to attend the class and bring their lunch! It’s a long class.
And finally…
This October, we’re teaming up with the Diaper Bank of Orange, Ulster and Sullivan as part of an RCLS wide initiative to support local families. With that, we’re collecting packages of new, unopened diapers. While all sizes are welcome, the bank especially needs sizes 3-7. Please drop off your donation in the basket in our main lobby and we’ll make sure it gets into the hands of people who need them the most.
