Adult Services

 

We're Here to Serve you!

The Adams County Library System is committed to serving the lifelong learning and enrichment needs of adults throughout our community. Our Adult Services team provides a wide range of engaging programs, educational resources, and support services tailored to diverse interests, backgrounds, and stages of life. Whether you're pursuing personal growth, professional development, or simply looking for social connection, the library offers something for everyone.

Adults programs

 

Adults programs

 

With programming offered at all six library branches and many opportunities available both in person and online, adults of all ages and abilities can find meaningful ways to learn, create, and connect. Our Adult Services staff is here to support you—whether you're exploring a new hobby, researching a topic of interest, or building skills for the future.

Visit our Events Calendar  to discover what’s happening near you, and let the library be your partner in lifelong learning.

We host a variety of book clubs and discussion groups that invite readers to explore fiction, nonfiction, mystery, historical fiction, and more. These gatherings foster thoughtful conversations and build a sense of community among avid readers. Craft enthusiasts can join regular meetups for knitting, sewing, diamond painting, and other creative activities—many of which welcome beginners and provide materials.

The library also offers workshops and seminars on current topics such as digital literacy, artificial intelligence, resume writing, and personal finance. Our technology classes and one-on-one tech help sessions are ideal for adults looking to improve their computer skills or gain confidence using devices and online tools.

In partnership with the Adams County Literacy Council, we support adult learners through free literacy education, ESL instruction, and GED preparation. We also collaborate with local organizations to host events that connect patrons to vital resources, including veterans' services and health and wellness programs.

Adults programs

 

Upcoming Events

Staff Development

All Day
Some Branches
Closing
Branches:
Gettysburg Library, Trone Memorial Library, Carroll Valley Library, Harbaugh-Thomas Library, Littlestown Library, New Oxford Library
This event is in the "Teens" group

Teen Writing Contest

All Day 10/14–10/22
Teens
Trone Memorial Library
Library Branch: Trone Memorial Library
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Other
Description:

Get into the spooky spirit by creating your own creepy story! Check out our Facebook page, events page, or stop by the library for more information. Submissions are due on October 22, and winners will be announced on October 31!

This event is in the "Teens" group

Teen Monthly Craft: Scary Story Writing

All Day 10/14–10/24
Teens
Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Library Branch: Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Description:

Writing supplies and paper will be provided so teens can get started on their own entry for the Short horror story contest!

October 1-October 24

During teen center hours:

Tuesday-Friday 2:45-6:00PM

This event is in the "Children" group
This event is in the "Teens" group
This event is in the "Adults" group
This event is in the "Everyone" group

Short Horror Story Contest

All Day 10/14–10/25
Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Library Branch: Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Age Group: Children, Teens, Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Other
Description:

Create an original scary story in 500 words or less and send it to harbaughthomas@adamslibrary.org

This event is in the "Everyone" group

Courtyard StoryWalk®

All Day 10/14–10/31
Everyone
Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Library Branch: Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Age Group: Everyone
Description:

All Ages

Enjoy an interactive story experience with a StoryWalk® outside in our courtyard!

October: We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt by Steve Metzger

This event is in the "Children" group

Preschool Pals

10:00am–10:30am
Children
Carroll Valley Library
Library Branch: Carroll Valley Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Storytime
Description:

Story time for preschool children ages 3 - 5. 

Join us for stories, songs, playtime, and a craft.