Ellicottville Memorial Library Launches Seed Library and Summer Programs
Ellicottville Memorial Library Launches Seed Library and Summer Programs
From gardening and summer reading to student opportunities and the annual book sale, the library is cultivating a season of creativity, learning, and community connection
As the seasons shift toward summer, the Ellicottville Memorial Library is preparing for a busy and engaging few months, highlighted by a creative seasonal theme for youth programming, the launch of a Seed Library, and its much-anticipated annual book sale.
At the center of this summer’s plans is a paid Summer Intern position, made possible through a generous donation from the Bob McCarthy Foundation. The library is seeking a local high school senior or college student to assist with its children’s Summer Reading Program, a cornerstone of its seasonal offerings.
(The Remainder of the article goeaThe position runs from June 29 through August 7, offering approximately 30 hours per week at $16 per hour. Library officials note that scheduling can be adjusted slightly to accommodate school calendars, making it an ideal opportunity for students looking to gain hands-on experience in education, community programming, and public service. Applications are due by June 6, and interested students are encouraged to call 716-699-2842 or stop by the library to learn more.
This year’s Summer Reading Program theme, “Unearth a Story!”, invites young readers to dig deeper - both literally and figuratively - into the world around them. The theme encourages exploration, discovery, and curiosity, blending storytelling with elements of nature, history, and hands-on learning. From uncovering hidden stories in books to making real-world connections through interactive activities, the program is designed to spark imagination and keep kids engaged all summer long.
Complementing that theme is one of the library’s newest and most exciting additions: the Seed Library. Recently introduced, this initiative allows patrons to “borrow” seed packets to plant at home, offering vegetables, herbs, and flowers to help grow personal gardens.
More than just a gardening resource, the Seed Library ties directly into the spirit of “Unearth a Story,” encouraging community members to cultivate not only plants, but also knowledge. Participants can learn about sustainability, local growing conditions, and the lifecycle of plants, all while contributing to a broader culture of sharing and environmental awareness. Over time, the program has the potential to become a community exchange, where gardeners can return seeds from their harvests and help the collection grow.
Meanwhile, the library’s Annual Book Sale offers another way for residents to connect - with stories, with each other, and with the library itself. The sale kicks off May 22-23 from 10:00am-5:00pm, featuring a wide selection of donated books, puzzles, audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs.
All proceeds from the sale directly support library programming and services, making it both a bargain-hunter’s paradise and an important fundraiser. For those who can’t make it on opening weekend, the sale will continue through June 13 during regular library hours, offering plenty of opportunities to browse and discover new reads.
In addition to these highlights, the library continues to offer a variety of weekly programs for all ages, from children’s story time sessions to adult craft workshops, reinforcing its role as a year-round hub for learning, creativity, and community connection.
Whether you’re a student seeking summer experience, a gardener ready to plant something new, or a reader in search of your next great find, the Ellicottville Memorial Library is inviting the community to take part in a season full of discovery - one story, and one seed, at a time. The Ellicottville Memorial Library is located at 6499 Maples Road. Visit the library on the web at ellicottvillelibrary.org.s here)