Wolf and Webb Realtors like to provide our clients personalized experiences where we not only work to help you sell or buy your home but also provide you ideas, suggestions and tips for the process and your time after. One way we provide tips is through our suggestions of things to do or ways to get involved in Lancaster County, this week we want to share with you more about the books.

With the cold weather we have coming in what better way to spend your day than enjoying a new book or film? Taking time to unwind and read a book is a great way to break up all the screen time we have been having from doing work and school from home, dive into a new story or place, learn something new and just relax. Instead of going out to buy a new book, ordering one online or through your kindle head over to Lancaster Public Library and rent out a book! 

Using the library is a great way to be sustainable, not hold on to too many books, and also support our local community. Plus Lancaster Public Library has so much to offer! The library has two branches one in Lancaster City and the other in Mountville.  Each is open daily except for Sundays. The Lancaster location is at 125 North Duke Street, and Mountville is at 120 College Avenue. The library dates back to 1759 when it first opened, formed by 54 members and over time grew to the wonderful buildings and spaces we love, talk about another long history in our hometown that we have continued to use as a resource and will continue for years to come. Their mission holds true in the work that all the staff do each day to provide our community the access and resources for great books, “By providing equitable access to vital educational resources, exceptional programming, and community building opportunities, the Lancaster Public Library is recognized as a dynamic center of knowledge and a cornerstone of a thriving Lancaster community”. There are so many dedicated staff members within both locations be sure to thank them next time you head in to pick up a new read. 

So what does the library provide? Well it provides a lot more than books there are:

• Passport services 
• Meeting rooms
• Public computers and free wifi
• Proctoring
• Movies
• Interlibrary loans
• Music
• Programming and events
• Job resources

And so many more special events, programs and initiatives. I would like to highlight 3 of their remarkable services. The first is their Grab Bags initiatives, this is a great way the library adapted during Covid-19, what you do is fill out their online form giving your library card number and your taste in books then one of the staff members browses the library to get new authors or books for you to enjoy! With the pandemic you have the ability to pick how you would like to pick up your grab bag from what location and using what services, because the library has lobby hours for fast pick up as well as curbside pick ups. 

Are you curious about homes that are currently on the market, our website is a great spot to start your search!

The library also has an Autism Resource Center that is 11 years old. This center provides great resources like literature, games and a learning space for social skills, behavioral therapy, conflict resolution, community awareness and interactions. The space is full of sensory items to meet the needs of all their patrons. This space is truly remarkable and a wonderful resource for all community members that may need it. 

The Duke Street Business Center is the third resource I would like to share with you all. This is a space for nonprofits, entrepreneurs, business individuals or anyone that would like to learn more. It is a space where the staff member is experienced in conducting business, and nonprofit research. The librarian is able to help you learn how to use different softwares and databases to meet your business needs and learn more. The business librarian is available by appointment only so you can really tailor your meeting to what needs you might have. The Duke Street Business Center also has computers and seating spaces that are for the use of business and nonprofit users only. It is wonderful for individuals to have their own space that they can go to for tailored help and equipment.

While the Center has individualized support so does the rest of the library, the employees are all incredible, hardworking and knowledgeable individuals that really make your experience a great one. 

Every week the library puts on multiple events at both locations. This is a great way to meet others within our community, enjoy learning about something new, join a book club or play games. What is wonderful about the events is that you pre sign up to the events that are in person so that way they can maintain capacity and ensure safety. They are also hosting virtual events for you to attend from the comfort of your own home! Events are a variety of topics, types of programs and also for a variety of age ranges, some are for teens, children or all ages. Be sure to check out their events calendar for this month, who knows you may want to get into a new book genre and joining a book club is a great way to start the discussion and find new authors to check out! 

With just a few more weeks until spring, spending so much time at home does not need to be boring, stressful or a time where you are at a loss for what to do. Especially with the Lancaster Public Library not far away. Get yourself a library card to enjoy great books, movies, online platforms and when we can have a great space to sit for an afternoon and have time for yourself. On your way home with a new book grab a cup of coffee from one of the many local shops and dive into a new story or learn something new with the help of the Lancaster Public Library. It is a great way to spend your time! If you find any good reads be sure to share, always up for a new book recommendation! 

Thanks for checking out this week’s Lancaster Local Secret, did you know in Pennsylvania a fan favorite is ham loaf- made from ham, ground pork, brown sugar, and seasoning? Have a great week! 

 Contact Mary Sue Wolf to look at homes and properties where you can not only be a member of a great public library but also get there with a quick walk or drive through the beautiful countryside or incredible city streets. You will love it here!

For more information on wonderful homes in Lancaster County call Mary Sue at 717-333-9653 or visit her website at www.WolfandWebb.com