By Craig Scott
With contributions from Summer Intern Madison Steinhagen.
Last Thursday afternoon, the Gadsden Public Library was transformed into a bustling hub of community activity as we hosted our inaugural Summer Social. With an estimated attendance of more than 700 children, teens, and adults, the event was a resounding success, bringing together residents from throughout Etowah County for an afternoon filled with fun, food, music, and fellowship.
The inspiration for the Summer Social grew out of a conversation regarding a major upcoming milestone: the 120th birthday of the Gadsden Public Library, which officially opened its doors on December 20, 1906. While Craig originally envisioned a grand birthday celebration this coming December, Kiana Corbin—the library’s newest Social Media and Marketing Specialist—suggested a different approach. Recognizing that late December is already filled with holiday activities and competing events, Kiana proposed hosting a large community celebration during the summer months, giving families an opportunity to experience everything the library has to offer while also building excitement for the library’s historic anniversary.
Her idea quickly became a reality thanks to the support of library staff, volunteers, City of Gadsden departments, Mayor Ford’s office, community organizations, vendors, and local businesses that worked together to make the afternoon memorable. The Summer Social showcased what today’s public library has become—not simply a place to borrow books, but a vibrant community gathering place where people can connect, learn, and enjoy one another’s company.
Inside the library, visitors explored informational displays and exhibits while meeting representatives from numerous local nonprofit organizations and community agencies. Families discovered services they may not have realized were available, while children and teens explored the library’s collections and public areas. Throughout the afternoon, library staff welcomed first-time visitors as well as longtime patrons, answering questions and introducing guests to many of the library’s free programs and resources.
Outside, the celebration continued with local food vendors serving a wide variety of delicious refreshments. The aroma of fresh food, combined with upbeat music and the laughter of children, created a festive atmosphere that could be felt throughout the surrounding neighborhood.
The event proved especially popular with our younger visitors. Underwood Park came alive as children participated in games, danced to music provided by a live DJ, and enjoyed one of the afternoon’s biggest attractions—a refreshing water spray provided by staff member, Caitlin, who also got drenched! On one of the hottest days of the summer, the opportunity to cool off while playing with friends quickly became a favorite memory for many families.
Perhaps the greatest success of the Summer Social wasn’t measured simply by attendance, but by the smiles on the faces of those who attended. Throughout the afternoon, neighbors met neighbors, children made new friends, parents reconnected with familiar faces, and many visitors commented that they hadn’t realized how much the library offers beyond books.
Events like the Summer Social remind us that libraries continue to evolve to meet the needs of their communities. While books and reading remain at the heart of our mission, today’s library also serves as a center for lifelong learning, creativity, technology, entertainment, and community engagement. Bringing people together is one of the most important things a public library can do.
The overwhelming response to our first Summer Social has already sparked conversations about making it an annual tradition. Judging by the enthusiasm of those who attended, it’s easy to see why and Kiana already has new and exciting ideas in mind!
If you were unable to join us this year, don’t worry. The Gadsden Public Library offers programs and events throughout the year for children, teens, adults, and seniors. We invite you to stop by, explore our collections, discover our many free services, and experience firsthand why the library continues to be one of our community’s most welcoming gathering places.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended, volunteered, partnered with us, and helped make the inaugural Summer Social such an incredible success. We are also indebted to our neighboring businesses who loaned their parking lots and parking spaces for the overload of cars and vehicles. We can’t wait to see you again at the library!
Gadsden Public Library: 254 South College Street, downtown Gadsden (next to the U.S. Post Office). Phone: 256-549-4699. Genealogy Branch: 2700 West Meighan Boulevard, Alabama City (next to the Ritz Theater at the corner of West Meighan and Wall Street). Phone: 256-549-4688
Craig Scott is the director for the GPL.
