The Great Bend Public Library would like to thank everyone in the community for joining us in our many Summer Library Program activities and events in June and July. It has been a fantastic summer, and we have had a great time at the library. If you still haven’t gotten your fill of library events, there are two more summer events left in the month of July.

This evening from 6-9 p.m. (Friday, July 26) the library is hosting Ronnie & the Rockits in a live classic rock concert. Come and stay for the whole thing, or drop by to enjoy a few good songs. For this concert you will need to bring blankets and seating for the lawn , and the library will provide water and frozen ice pops. This event is family-friendly and open to everyone from 0-100, but because it is located on city property you will need to leave the alcohol at home. Join us in a rockin’ concert as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Next week there is one more big event, even though it is after the official “end” of the summer program. From 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, children in grades 3-5 are invited to a Harry Potter party, after-hours at the library. Join us to celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday in the Great Hall of Hogwarts. Enter on Platform 9 3/4 at the library. You will be sorted into your house and attend classes, including Diagon Alley crafts, Quidditch games, and Potion treats. Then show off your knowledge by competing in the Triwizard Trivia Tournament; you can even dress up as your favorite Hogwarts character. Kids that want to participate in this event will need to register on the library’s website. 

During the month of August, the children and teen departments of the library will be taking a break from most events to plan the fall and winter programs, but there will be events for adults throughout the month, and one special event for all ages in conjunction with the Kansas Wetlands Education Center on Friday, August 9 (details coming soon). For event info or other library information, please visit our Facebook page or website (greatbendpl.info), stop by the library (1409 Williams St), or give us a call (620-792-2409). We hope to see you soon.

Michael Adamyk is the Marketing and Technical Services Manager at the Great Bend Public Library. He can be reached by email at gbcirc@gmail.com.