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

This event is in the "Teens" group

Teen Book and Snack Boxes

All Day 12/1–12/8
Teens
Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Library Branch: Harbaugh-Thomas Library
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: Other
Description:

Receive a monthly Book and Snack Box, complete with a library book selected for you by staff as well as one snack to eat! Boxes will be ready to pick up at the Harbaugh-Thomas Library during the first day of each month.

This event is in the "Everyone" group

Gingerbread House Contest

All Day 12/1–12/20
Everyone
Trone Memorial Library
Library Branch: Trone Memorial Library
Age Group: Everyone
Description:

All ages are invited to get into the holiday spirit by entering our gingerbread house contests!  Entries will be accepted Dec. 1-20 and voting will take place Dec. 22-31.

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

Self-Serve Gift Wrap Station

All Day 12/1–12/20
Adults, Everyone
New Oxford Library
Library Branch: New Oxford Library
Age Group: Adults, Everyone
Program Type: Arts & Crafts, Other
Description:

Monday, Dec 1–Saturday, Dec 20

Reduce your holiday stress and the need to wrap gifts in secret. Wrap your gifts for free at the library! Bring your own supplies or use our wrapping paper, ribbons, tape, scissors, and table space. 

This event is in the "Adults" group

Blackout Poetry Challenge

12/01/2025 @ 10:00am–12/23/2025 @ 8:00pm
Adults
Trone Memorial Library
Library Branch: Trone Memorial Library
Age Group: Adults
Description:

Stop by the library and try constructing a winter poem via the blackout poetry method while adhering to a monthly theme/prompt.

This event is in the "Children" group

Holiday Card Making

1:00pm–2:00pm
Children
Trone Memorial Library
Registration Required
Library Branch: Trone Memorial Library
Room: Mary Cash Room - Lower Level
Age Group: Children
Program Type: Arts & Crafts
Registration Required
Description:

School's Out, Library's In!  Children ages 5-12 are invited to make a holiday card for that special someone in your life.  Miss Dana will teach a few techniques for card making and supplies will be provided.

Harry Potter and Hot Cocoa Bar

2:00pm–4:00pm
Gettysburg Library
Registration Required
Library Branch: Gettysburg Library
Room: Third Floor Meeting Room
Program Type: Movie
Registration Required
Description:

Create your own hot cocoa and watch the film about a young wizard that started it all. Please note that the movie starts at 2:00 PM 

Registration recommended.