Even though October is winding down, there’s still plenty happening at the Bradford Area Public Library (BAPL)—with events for all ages, from curious kids to lifelong learners.

On Monday, October 20 at 6 PM, BAPL and the Friends of Hanley Library are teaming up to host local author Lisa Olszak Zumstein for a special author talk. Lisa will be sharing the behind-the-scenes story of her first book, The Brady’s Bend Flood of 1980.  Attendees will hear how the community responded to a devastating flood, and discover some surprising facts she uncovered while digging into the history of floods in Bradford and McKean County. After the presentation, there’ll be a chance for open discussion, and light refreshments will be served.  Local bookstore, On the Side Books, has Lisa’s book available to buy ahead of the event, and a limited number of copies will also be for sale at the library that evening.

What’s October without a few ghost stories? On Thursday, October 23 at 6 PM, come hear Railroad Ghost Stories—a collection of spooky (but not too scary) tales perfect for all ages. Presenter, Kenneth Serfass will bring these stories to life with his real-life experience working on railroads like the Strasburg RR and East Broad Top. He’ll take on the role of an old-time trainman and share stories about haunted locomotives, phantom brakemen, and other eerie legends from the age of steam. All aboard for a frightfully fun time!

Children in grades 1–5 won’t want to miss Pumpkin Palooza on Saturday, October 18 at 1 PM! This fun event includes:  learning the history of jack-o-lanterns, crafting pumpkin-themed art, playing pumpkin games, and yes… eating pumpkin snacks! Registration is required and can be achieved on the library’s website:  bradfordlibrary.org .

Bookworms in grades 1–5 are invited to dress up as their favorite literary characters on Monday, October 27. For this special program, children will enjoy games, snacks, and lots of fun activities based on children’s books.  This event also requires registration.

The Twilight book is celebrating its twentieth anniversary this fall.  Area teens are invited to mark this milestone with a Twilight Watch Party at the library on Thursday, October 23 at 2:45 PM.  The event includes:  a screening of the Twilight movie, vampire trivia, themed activities, and, lots of snacks!

Teens in grades 8–12 can also test their sleuthing skills during Mystery Night, happening twice on Tuesday, October 28 (come at 2:45 PM or 6 PM). Youth can play mystery board games, decode secret messages, and have laid-back fun. No registration needed!

Lastly, Teen Lounge happens every Wednesday at 2:45 PM, and is always free.

So, whether individuals are into history, spooky stories, crafts, or vampires, BAPL has something for everyone this October. Check out BAPL’s full calendar at bradfordlibrary.org, and get involved before the month slips away!