Library reports 49% jump in winter reading sign-ups; summer kickoff set for June 9

The East Longmeadow Board of Library Trustees heard that registrations for the library's all-ages Annual Winter Reading Challenge rose 49% this season, Library Director Katie McGonigle reported at the board's Feb. 18 meeting.

McGonigle (Library Director) told trustees the increase reflects strong participation across age groups and that planning is underway for the Summer Reading Program. The kickoff is scheduled for Tuesday, June 9, from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m.; Chair Amy Pawle volunteered to hand out popsicles and the board said it still needs an additional member to help at the event.

The director also briefed the board on weekday services and programs: teen programming now offers more than three programs per week, and the teens and children's departments received grant funding from the East Longmeadow Cultural Council for events later this year. Adult offerings have restarted, including Monday Matinees, and tax information is available at the library for patrons.

McGonigle reported that orders from Ingram were delivered successfully and that technical services staff are cataloging and relabeling incoming books. She also relayed updates from the Friends of the Library, which held a successful bake sale, is planning a Thunderbirds fundraiser on March 6, and is processing scholarship applications.

The board did not take a vote on program funding at the meeting; McGonigle's report summarized recent activity and upcoming events. The trustees will meet next on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the East Longmeadow Public Library.