At the heart of almost every community is a library. Whether you're cramming for that big test tomorrow or hoping to finish the last chapter of that murder mystery novel you've been reading, the library is one of few public places where you can enjoy a little bit of peace and quiet without making a purchase. But a library is much more than an accessible public space or a room full of bookshelves; many libraries offer a plethora of programs that focus on anything from outreach services to early childhood education to tax preparation resources, and they rely on support from the local community.

Quarryville Library Center, located at 357 Buck Road, Quarryville, is one of many libraries in Lancaster County that benefit the community in numerous ways. The Quarryville Library offers a steady lineup of reading programs, workshops and educational presentations, such as tech help sessions, group sewing classes and community crafter meetings.

In 2024, the Quarryville Library received a grant from the State Library of Pennsylvania via Family Place, an initiative created to support libraries across the state and the communities they serve. The library plans to invest the grant funds in various enrichment activities throughout its building, including interactive sensory panels kids may use to create art or to engage with peers. The Family Place grant also allowed the Quarryville Library to offer workshop sessions that are attended by an interventionist who is available to answer parents' questions and discuss their concerns.

"The library is a community resource. It's a place where you can go if you're retired or bring an infant to enjoy the company of other people and not have to pay for a coffee," said Sharon Roche, program manager of the Quarryville Library. "We have free outreach programs, trusted sources of information and free WiFi. A library is definitely a lot more than just books."

Although the Quarryville Library offers numerous free programs and a litany of community resources, its services are primarily sustained by a handful of fundraising efforts and many dedicated volunteers. The library receives little support from local municipalities' taxpayer dollars, which means that services such as repairs and maintenance must be paid out of pocket. This year, the Lancaster County commissioners' office lowered its budget for libraries by 17%, and six out of 10 municipalities that previously donated to the Quarryville Library have completely withdrawn their support. In total, the library is facing a $25,000 budget cut, making community support and fundraising more vital than ever.

One of the Quarryville Library's largest yearly fundraisers is Go Fore Golf, an event that the library will host on Saturday, Feb. 15. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the library will be transformed into a miniature golf course, and tee times will be scheduled in five-minute increments. Go Fore Golf will feature an 18-hole golf course that spans multiple rooms in the library, including unique challenges such as sand traps and water features.

The fundraiser will also include face painting, a prize drawing and a silent auction, as well as a balloon artist from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prizes and auction items will include gift baskets and items donated by local businesses, such as sports merchandise autographed by famous athletes. Participants who have completed the library's winter reading program will receive an additional ticket for prize drawings.

Community members of all ages and golfing abilities are invited to register at a set price per person, and teams may include up to four players. Children ages 3 to 10 will receive a discount, and kids age 2 and under may participate for free using toy golf clubs. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/QVLgolf25.

"Community support is more important than ever," Roche said. "It's going to keep the lights on."

Despite significant budget cuts, Roche said the library will continue to offer a handful of free programs thanks to various community members who have volunteered to run them. To learn how to become a volunteer or help set up an event, contact Roche at sroche@quarryvillelibrary.org.