Welcome to the Living Library, a partnership between the YWCA Gettysburg & Adams County and the Adams County Library System!  We have gathered human "books" to be checked out by readers for 30-minute conversations during the week.  Please use the form below to register to listen to Kay's story.

Kay Hollabaugh, from Biglerville, is one of the owners of Hollabaugh Bros. Family Fruit Farm, located just 9 miles north of Gettysburg. Although her career did not start in Agriculture, her love for the industry is often on display when she is asked to speak for different organizations. She is very passionate about farming and its people. After many years of doing farm tours and managing a retail market, she is quite convinced that most folks have NO idea where their food comes from, nor are they appreciative enough toward those hands who plant, care for, and harvest it! Her biggest fear? Having to depend upon imported food to feed our families. Kay and husband, Brad, recently lost their son, Bruce, who was an integral part of their farm’s 3 rd generation of farmers and marketers alongside his sister, Ellen Hollabaugh Vranich, and cousin Wayne. The 2 nd generation is still actively involved in the business and are proud that the 4 th generation is also present during the summer and fall months – as their busy schedules allow. Kay is proud of their families’ stewardship of the land as well as the strong ties that exist within the family and employees.

Book Title: The Race to the Blueberry Patch

Book Synopsis: 

In Kay’s often emotional tale, you will learn of the significance of the fruit and vegetable industry in Adams County. She will share stories of her experiences on their 500-acre family farm. And, she will explain her journey from the day she left managing a busy Orthopaedic office to rearing a family and learning to pay the bills on an evolving family farm business. You will grow to appreciate the lifestyles of both Kay’s employees as well as the Hollabaugh family and learn of their deep compassion for their family roots. If you enjoy driving the rural roads coursing through the rolling hills of upper Adams County; if you are often in awe of the beauty of these farm lands and orchards; then you are sure to enjoy this book that will give you new insights into the heart of this region of PA.