With 2025 marking its 60th anniversary, South Central Regional Library (SCRL) is celebrating a banner year so far. Gail Hildebrand, Administrator for the Morden branch, says that they are celebrating their successful spring Book Sale fundraiser, and a summer reading surge that's keeping them busy. The community helps push the Book Sale past $18K The year kicked off with a major boost thanks to the library’s annual book sale, which raised $18,300 before expenses. “We did have to pay a few expenses, but it was very minimal this year, thanks to a lot of community involvement and volunteer services,” said Hildebrand. Much of that support came in the form of donations of time, equipment, and transportation. “BP grain borrowed us a truck and paid for the fuel for us to go in and pick up two loads of books from Winnipeg,” Hildebrand explained. “Solventum, which used to be 3M in town, gave us pallets to put all the books on. The Fire Department volunteers their time with this as well… they’re the brawn and we’re the brains.” Proceeds from the book sale are being distributed across SCRL’s branches and central office, with each location choosing a special project in honour of the 60th anniversary. In Morden, for example, the funds are going toward additional storage space in the meeting room, while Manitou is adding extra seating. A portion of the funds also supports the local fire department, whose members have long partnered with the library during the book sale. Related stories: Books, books, and more books! SCRL Book Sale is underway A quest for colourful clues through Winkler Library's Bookland Explorer's program The summer reading programs As summer arrived, SCRL shifted gears into one of its busiest times of year in its annual summer programming. Just over halfway through the season, Hildebrand says the turnout has been remarkable. “We have had over 1,500 kids sign up for the regular program throughout South Central, and we've had just over 200 sign up for our teen program, which is amazing. We've doubled what we had last year for our teen program,” she said, pointing to their grand prize of a Nintendo Switch 2 as the possible culprit behind the increase. As for the younger readers, Hildebrand says, “They’ve been coming in for the programming and story times, crafts and reading lots and lots of hours to get their tickets and their money for our little store here.” Celebrating 60 years of service As August begins, the focus begins to shift to preparing for the fall. For Hildebrand and the team, keeping that momentum going the way to do it. “We just want to remind everybody we’re here and keep using us, keep coming in and finding books. And if we don’t have it, we’ll find it for you or we’ll get it ourselves.” Check out the SCRL website to follow what your branch has going on this summer.