Adams County Library Offers FoodLink Boxes, Programs Feb. 10–13

A new partnership between the Adams County Public Library and IPM Food Pantry expanded access to FoodLink boxes at four county branches while the library staged a week of programs for children, teens, and adults from Feb. 10–13. Library leaders said the effort aims to help residents facing food insecurity and to connect families with learning and social opportunities.

“The Adams County Public Library is proud to partner with IPM Food Pantry to offer FoodLink boxes,” the library stated, and urged patrons that “If food has been a worry for you, please ask the front desk for a box. We're happy to help.” The boxes are explicitly available at the Manchester, North Adams, Peebles, and West Union library branches, and the library advises customers to stop in or call their local branch because availability may vary by location.

For families looking to pair assistance with practical guidance, the library suggested visitors “browse the library’s great selection of cookbooks for inspiration.” Staff also encouraged patrons to call ahead with questions about availability or pickup procedures.

The library ran a concentrated schedule of events across the county during the week of Feb. 10–13. Storytime sessions were held for preschoolers and caregivers, with a Tuesday, Feb. 10 Storytime at the North Adams Library at 11:00 a.m., followed by morning Storytime sessions at the Peebles Public Library and the Manchester Public Library at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11. Organizers described Storytime as an opportunity in which “preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to gather for stories, songs, and activities designed to encourage early literacy, while offering an engaging social experience.” They also noted that “These programs provide children the opportunity to build listening skills, creativity, and a love of books, while caregivers connect with others in the community.”

Other programs listed for the week included Smorgasbord Makerspace, Teen Video Game Play, Crafternoon, Mystery Escape Room, and Adult Coloring Club. Specific times and locations for those events were not provided in available materials; the library recommends checking its current newsletter or contacting a branch for the most up-to-date schedule.

Practical branch contacts are listed by the library: Peebles Public Library, 157 High Street, Peebles, (937) 587-2085; Manchester Public Library, 401 Pike Street, Manchester, (937) 549-3359; North Adams Public Library, 2469 Moores Road, Seaman, (937) 386-2555; West Union Public Library, 212 East Sparks Street, West Union, (937) 544-2591. The system also directs patrons to its social channels and newsletter for updates and event changes.

Reporter Julia McCane-Knox noted the context plainly: “Times are tough, but libraries make things a little easier.” For residents, the combined offering of FoodLink boxes and programming means immediate help with basic needs alongside opportunities for children’s literacy, teen engagement, and adult social programming. Readers should ask at the front desk or call their local branch to confirm FoodLink availability, event times for Feb. 12–13, and any participation requirements.