This Week at the Sullivan County Libraries

Activities are in full swing this week at the Sullivan County libraries across Kingsport, TN. Ranging from the initiation of the Summit Seekers Hiking Club, to the Spring Craft Market and Library-wide Pet Photo Contest, the schedule is brimming with events that cater to all age groups and interests.

The Summit Seekers Hiking Club

This newly-formed community initiative launched its first hike back on the weekend of April 20. For those interested in trailblazing through the month of May, an informational and planning meeting will be held on May 2 at 6 p.m. at the Blountville branch.

Library News

Friends of the Blountville Library’s Spring Craft Market

Hosted in conjunction with the Tennessee Dancing Gourd Festival in Blountville, the market will take place on May 4. Encouraging local artisans, the event offers an array of craftwork, perfect for Mother’s Day gifts. The fair is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Blountville United Methodist Church.

Library-wide Pet Photo Contest

In celebration of National Pet Month, the library is organizing a Cutest Pet Contest running from May 1-27. Patrons are invited to email a photo of their pet (one submission per household) to suzanne.huron@scpltn.org or submit a physical print at the nearest branch. Each branch will have a winner voted on by the patrons, and the library will also recognize an All Branch Winner. The photo submission window ends on May 27, with the winner announcement on May 31.

Summer Reading Program

The summer reading program will soon commence. Tin anticipation of the official start on June 1, registrations can be made beginning in May via the ReadSquared app. The program, meant for kids and adults alike, has planned special events and prizes for hitting reading targets. For further details, patrons can contact any one of the five branches.

Children and Teens Activities

All five branches offer a Preschool Storytime each week, with a special feature on primary colors and rainbows this week. Some of the engaging activities include My Hero Academia Fan Night, Teen Horror Book Club, After School Storytime, and art and history learning sessions among others.

Family Events

Events include a pet bandana DIY at the Blountville branch, preparation for the Cutest Pet Contest, and a ‘Pet Care Class’ in collaboration with Petworks in Kingsport on May 10. The library will also host a ‘Saturday Matinee’ on May 11, screening “Muppet Treasure Island”.

Adult Activities

Zumba sessions, Knit/Crochet Club meetings and Geri-Fit fitness classes have been scheduled for adults. Additionally, Chelsea’s Q-Tip Lavender Plant Painting Craft, among other activities, will take place at the Bloomingdale branch on April 27.

Whether you are a book enthusiast, a fitness junkie, art and craft lover or an adventure seeker, the library branches across Sullivan County offer a platform for all. Check their event calendar at www.scpltn.org/events for more details on kickoff and other events.