Simply Simpson
February 2025

February Highlights
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Friday, February 21, 12:00 to 5:00 pm
 
We are excited to host the next Red Cross Blood Drive in the bigger, brighter conference room at the Learning and Book Sale Center on 45 W. Allen St., Mechanicsburg! This will allow for a faster and more comfortable collection.
The Red Cross has been making a humanitarian impact for more than 130 years and has been collecting blood for over 70 of those years. We can all be part of something important when we work with the Red Cross to strengthen the blood supply and give back to our community.
If you are a regular blood donor and want to make an appointment, go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=SimpsonLibrary. This will bring up the available appointments. If this is your first time to donate blood, go to https://www.redcrossblood.org/ and click on “Am I Eligible to Donate Blood?” before you try to make an appointment.
Please sign up for an appointment in advance.
Location: Learning and Book Sale Center at 45 W. Allen St., Mechanicsburg
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
 
 
Trivia at Home - Modern Family
Saturday, February 22, 6:00 to 8:00 pm
 
Modern Family ran for 11 Seasons and was one of those shows that was funny to the end of its run. This is the first time Cheaters Never Prosper is offering this topic! Reruns are on Hulu if you need to brush up.
Show off your knowledge of the show Zoom trivia game—from your couch on February 22! 
The winning team gets up to four gift cards to Amazon! Cheaters Never Prosper will host the virtual game for us.
Only 25 people can sign up, and your entire household can play under one sign-up. Please register online for this event.
You will receive an email with Zoom login information before the event. 
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
Apple Users Group for Seniors
Friday, February 28, 1:00 to 2:00 pm
 
Welcome to the Apple Users Group for Seniors! Every month tech expert Barry Gordon comes prepared to share new features and tips about your iPhone and iPad. There is also time to get your questions answered.
Barry Gordon is a retired business owner from Harrisburg. However, in 2018 he had a vision for a new business venture. He began Senior Tech Tutor LLC specifically to help people who are struggling with their electronic devices. Being a senior himself, Barry brings the patience and understanding necessary to teach you to use your iPhone or iPad with confidence.
Registration: Register online to attend. 
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
 
Friends Events
February Book Sale
Saturday, February 8, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm and
Sunday, February 9, 1:00 to 3:00 pm
 
The Friends of Simpson Library present their February Book Sale on Saturday, February 8 and Sunday, February 9. The regular Book Sale is on Saturday, February 8, from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. On Sunday, February 9 from 1:00 - 3:00 pm, the Friends of Simpson will be having their Bag Sale – all the books you can fit in a level bag for only $10.00! Some restrictions apply. Paper bags supplied by the Friends of the Library.
 
The Book Sale is held at our new location:
Book Sale & Donation Center
45 W. Allen Street, Mechanicsburg
 
Shopping Guidelines
We ask all patrons to please adhere to the following guidelines so that everyone has a positive shopping experience:
  1. If you arrive before the start of the sale, please lineup in the designated area.  
  2. Please note that any belongings such as boxes, bags, and other objects may not be used to hold your place in line, nor can another person hold your place in line.  You must stand in line yourself to hold your place.
  3. Scanners are allowed, but please scan as you go; do not hoard books.
  4. Tables will be available where you can place your boxes and bins. They are not permitted on the sales floor.
  5. Be courteous to fellow shoppers and do not block aisles.
  6. For safety reasons, please do not use the shelving as a step ladder and do not allow small children to stand on chairs, tables, etc.  If you need help, just ask one of our volunteers and we would be glad to assist you.
  7. There is a cart for books that need to be re-shelved.  If you change your mind about something, please place it on the cart and a volunteer will put it back in the appropriate location.
 
Hoss's Dine-Out
Wednesday, February 12, 11:00 am to 8:00 pm
 
Dine out at Hoss's on the Gettysburg Pike on Wednesday, February 12, from 11:00 am - 8:00 pm, and support the Friends of Simpson Library! Enjoy lunch or dinner with your family and friends while supporting the Friends of Simpson Library.
A percentage of the cost of your meal will go directly to the Friends of the Library. 
Pick up a flyer or download one to give to your server before you go. The fundraiser is valid for take-out or dine-in meals.
 
 
A Night at the Theatre
Wednesday, February 26, 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
 
The Friends of the Library have partnered with the Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg to present a Night at the Theatre on Wednesday, February 26 at 7:30 pm. Beat the winter blues by watching the mystery-comedy, Murder by Membership Only, with other supporters of the library. Tickets cost $20 per person and go on sale at the library on January 15.
The play will be performed at Little Theatre of Mechanicsburg on 915 South York Street in Mechanicsburg.
 
 
Save the Date!
Chick-fil-A Dine Out
Wednesday, March 19, 4:00 to 8:00 pm
 
Please join us for a Community Cares–Spirit Night at Chick-fil-A at Shepherdstown Crossing on Wednesday, March 19 from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. When placing your order, mention that you are there to support Friends of Joseph T Simpson Library and 10% of your purchase will be donated accordingly! You can also show a dine-out flyer.  
This dine-out is only valid at the Chick-fil-A at Shepherdstown Crossing near the 7-Eleven in Upper Allen Township. 
 
 
Apple Users Group for Seniors
Friday, March 21, 1:00 to 2:00 pm
 
This year regular attendees can request what type of class they want. Part of each session will focus on step-by-step instructions for some of the functions of your iPhone and iPad. LOCATION:The Learning and Book Sale Center at 45 W. Allen St., Mechanicsburg.
Barry Gordon is a retired business owner from Harrisburg. However, in 2018 he had a vision for a new business venture. He began Senior Tech Tutor LLC specifically to help people who are struggling with their electronic devices. Being a senior himself, Barry brings the patience and understanding necessary to teach you to use your iPhone or iPad with confidence.
Registration: Register online to attend. 
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
 
Trivia at Home: Country Music
Saturday, March 22, 6:00 to 8:00 pm
 
Country Music is a very wide genre these days. Many songs are played, and you may not even realize they are considered country songs. This category may surprise you! Impress us in our Zoom trivia game - from your couch on March 22! 
The winning team gets up to four gift cards to Amazon! Cheaters Never Prosper will host the virtual game for us.
Only 25 people can sign up, and your entire household can play under one sign-up. Please register online for this event.
You will receive an email with Zoom login information before the event. 
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
 
 
Apply to Beautify the Barriers 
Beautify the Barriers Painting Project 2025
 
Since 2021, local artists painted murals on the line of concrete "jersey" barriers near the exit of our parking lot, transforming them into fabulous artwork! We are again seeking artists to repaint the barriers with new designs that tie into 2025's Summer Learning Program theme, "Color Our World." The Beautify the Barriers project will be publicly unveiled in early June 2025 where artists will be recognized for their creations.
 
Apply to Beautify the Barriers! This year, you can apply online! Fill out the form at the link, upload the required documents, submit, and you're done! You can still download an application or pick one up at the library. Completed applications must be received by February 21, 2025. Email completed applications to Ilse at ikryemadhi@cumberlandcountylibraries.org, drop them off at the library, or mail to 16 N. Walnut St, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
Successful applicants must complete their painting during the month of May 2025. Artists are to supply their own materials. Here are some tips and tricks from the artists who participated previously.
 
Key Dates for 2025
January 1:  Applications open
February 21:  Applications due 
March 21:  Applicants notified of acceptance and barrier assignments
April 11:  Applicants confirm to Library their acceptance to become 2025 Artists
May 1 - 31:  Painting of Barriers, completion by May 31
Early June:  Reception and public unveiling of the paintings 
 
Questions? Please contact Ilse Kryemadhi at ikryemadhi@cumberlandcountylibraries.org or call 717-766-0171.
 
Art Depot, 105 N. Arch Street, Mechanicsburg, is once again sponsoring the Beautify the Barriers Project. They are offering a 25% discount on materials and supplies to participating artists.
 
 
What's Your Library Story?
 
We are interested in knowing what makes Simpson Library special to you. How has the library impacted your life? Do you have special memories of the library? We would love to hear your story! Please share it with us by filling out a "What's Your Library Story" card available at all circulation desks and in the lobby or fill out our online form here.
 
 
Book Clubs
All adults are invited to join the book clubs that meet at our library. We have clubs for mystery readers, fans of sci-fi, and those who enjoy a variety of classic and contemporary literature. Take a look at what we're reading and join a club or two! No registration required.
New attendees, please contact Joelene at jodiana@cumberlandcountylibraries.org for more information.
 
Mad About Mysteries
Wednesday, February 12, 7:00 to 8:00 pm
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
Watch the Skies Sci Fi Book Club
Wednesday, February 19, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
The Summer Tree by Guy Gavriel Kay
 
 
Thursday Morning Book Club
February 20, 10:00 to 11:00 am
The House is on Fire by Rachel Beanland
Monday Night Book Club
February 17, 7:00 to 8:00 pm
The House is on Fire by Rachel Beanland
 
Programs for Children, Teens, and Adults
Please visit the online Events Calendar for the most up-to-date information for each program and registration links where applicable. Most programs for children, tweens, and teens require registration at least three days before the event. All programs are free unless otherwise noted.
Refer to our website, visit us in person, or call us at 717-766-0171 for details.
 
CHILDREN
 
Story Time Schedule
 
Rhyme Time (for babies)
Mondays 10:15 to 10:35 am
Wednesdays 10:15 to 10:35 am and 5:30 to 5:50 pm
Thursdays 11:45 am to 12:05 pm
Toddler Time (for toddlers on the go)
Mondays 10:45 to 11:05 am, 11:15 to 11:35 am, and 1:30 to 1:50 pm
Wednesdays 10:45 to 11:05 am and 6:00 to 6:20 pm
Thursdays 11:15 to 11:35 am
Story Time (ages 4 to 6 years)
Wednesdays 1:30 to 2:15 pm
Thursdays 10:15 to 11:00 am
 
Storybook STEAM: Storybook STEAM is an exciting mix of literature, science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (Age 4 to 6 years, but fun for the whole family). Meets each Tuesday evening, 6:00 to 7:00 pm. No Registration required. 
 
February 3, the topic is light and shadows
February 10, the topic is Valentine's Day
February 17, the topic is dinosaurs
February 24 the topic is Goldilocks (National Tell a Fairy Tale Day)
 
Questions? Contact Becca at bdowhower@cumberlandcountylibraries.org 
or 717-766-0171.
 
Lego Time
Fridays, 10:15 to 11:15 am
 
Join us for an hour of fun STEAM play with LEGO Duplo blocks every Friday at 10:15 am! Children ages 18 months through preschool will learn to share and develop fine motor skills, dexterity, and problem solving skills, in a busy, creative environment.
Questions? Please email Danette or call 717-766-0171.
 

Children's Monthly Clubs and Special Events 
There are many exciting clubs that are held monthly in our children's department. Check out our children's calendar for more information and registration links.
 

Lego Club
Thursday, February 6, 6:00 to 7:00 pm
 
Engineer a project by creating, planning, and building with LEGO at LEGO Club on the first Thursday of the month at 6:00 pm! 
Come into the room at 6:50 pm to pick up your child and see their amazing creation before it's taken apart.
Ages:  Grades K-5. Parents must remain at the library while their child attends LEGO Club. 
Registration: Please register online in advance.
Questions? Email Tara or call 717-766-0171
 .
 
Steam Club
Monday, February 17, 6:00 to 7:00 pm
 
Imagine, design, explore, construct, and discover with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, or Math! Students will develop critical thinking, teamwork, motor, and communication skills in this program on the third Monday of each month. There are two sessions offered, one for grades 1 to 2 and another for grades 3 to 5. This month's topic is spin art.
 
Registration: Please register online at least three days before the program.
Register here for grades 1 to 2 
Register here for grades 3 to 5 
 
 
Block Party
Saturday, February 8, 10:30 to 11:25 am
Saturday, February 22, 10:30 to 11:25 am
 
This STEAM program is an hour of fun just playing with wooden blocks and our play animals, vehicles, and people! It's designed for preschoolers but fun for the whole family. We host block parties on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month so come see what it is all about and have some "constructive" fun!
Questions? Please email Danette or call 717-766-0171.
 
 
Puzzle Party
Saturday, February 8, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm
Saturday, February 22, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm
 
Your whole family will fit perfectly at Puzzle Party on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 11:30 am - 12:30 pm! Put your problem solving skills to the test at this drop-in event!
Younger children will enjoy putting together one of our giant, oversized floor puzzles. Older children can solve riddles, mazes, crosswords, or word-finds.
Questions? Please email Danette or call 717-766-0171.
 
 
Craft-a-Palooza
Saturday, February 15, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
 
Does your child love making crafts? Then definitely make time for Craft-A-Palooza on the third Saturday of the month! Drop in any time from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Each child can make two crafts. One craft will follow simple instructions or an example. The second craft, our “craft challenge,” is based on a monthly theme and will allow your child to express their creativity and individuality.
Questions? Please email Becca or 717-766-0171.
 
 
TWEENS
 
Tween Scene
Monday, February 24, 6:00 to 7:00 pm
 
Students in grades 4-8 are invited to make new friends and to try new activities on the fourth Monday of each month. Join us for a fun event! 
Topic: Cupcake decorating
Ages: Grades 4-8. Parents must remain at the library while their child attends Tween Scene.
Registration: Please register online at least three days before the event.
Questions? Email Danette or call 717-766-0171.
 
 
TEENS
 
 
100 Books Before Graduation
Teens, we have a program just for you! Students in grades 6 to12 are able to sign up for our 100 Books Before Graduation program. Your goal is to read 100 books before your high school graduation. You can register for this program on Beanstack or by visiting the circulation desk on the upper level of the library. You can track your reading on your Beanstack account or by using the Beanstack Tracker app. You will receive a prize after every 25 books and a grand prize after finishing the program! Questions? Please contact Danette at 717-766-0171 or by emailing dswartley@cumberlandcountylibraries.org.
 
 
Teen Movie Monday
Monday, February 3, 6:00 to 8:30 pm
 
On the first Monday of every month, join us for Teen Movie Monday for pizza, snacks, movies, games, and more! This month we're watching Secondhand Lions and hosting an ice cream bar.
This program is only for students in grades 6-12.
No registration required!
Questions? Please email Jake or call 717-766-0171.
 
 
Graphic Novel Club
Thursday, February 13, 6:00 to 7:30 pm
  
Come hang out on the second Thursday of every month to draw together and learn how to create your own comics!
This program is only for students in grades 6-12. 
No registration required! Parents do not need to stay at the library. Teens will sign in and provide an emergency contact name and phone number.
Questions? Please email Jake or call 717-766-0171.
 
 
Dungeons and Dragons
Friday, February 14, 6:00 to 8:00 pm
Friday, February 28, 6:00 to 8:00 pm
 
Calling all Teen Elves, Dwarves, Gnomes, and all other fantastical races of beings in the Dungeons and Dragons world! Join us for one-shot campaigns. This program is only for those in grades 6 to 12. No adults, please. All levels of players in that age group, from beginner to expert, are invited. No registration required!
Questions? Please email Jake or call 717-766-0171. 
 
 
Teen Third Thursday
Thursday, February 20, 6:00 to 7:30 pm
 
On the Third Thursday of every month, teens are invited to try a new art project! This month we're making galaxy jars. While the program is scheduled until 7:30 pm, teens are free to leave when they've finished their project.
Ages: This program is for those in grades 6-12 only.
Registration: Please register online. 
Questions? Please email Jake or call 717-766-0171.
 
 

 Adults
 
Tea and Stitches 
Join Tea and Stitches for a cup of tea as you work on your stitching project every Tuesday morning from 10:00 am to noon. Meet other stitching enthusiasts in the area and learn from one another.
NEW LOCATION: Come to the Learning and Book Sale Center at 45 W. Allen St., Mechanicsburg starting in January 2025.
No registration necessary! 
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
 
Mah Jongg
Come play Mah Jongg at the library every Thursday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Mah Jongg is a fascinating rummy-like game you play with tiles rather than cards.
NEW LOCATION: Come to the Learning and Book Sale Center at 45 W. Allen St., Mechanicsburg starting in January 2025.
New to Mah Jongg? Please sign up for a four-part beginner's training session held on the first  four Thursdays of each month.
Questions? Please contact MaryAnne Turnbaugh at maryanne.turnbaugh@yahoo.com. 
 
 
English Conversation Club
Monday, February 10, 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Monday, February 24, 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Held in Room B in lower level of library
 
Welcome back to our English Conversation group! If English is not your first language and you would like to practice, come to the library! Join other new English language speakers for friendly, low-stress conversations.
Come and hear some of the new ways we want to help your English practice. One of the changes will be a daytime book club to practice reading. These sessions hope to help women who have wanted to attend but have school-age children and cannot come in the evening. The Women's Reading Hour will meet every Monday at noon beginning March 17. 
The program is free, and you must already speak English to attend, this is a group to practice your conversation skills only!
Questions? Email Joelene or call 766-0171.
 
 
Play Scrabble!
Thursday, February 20, 1:00 to 3:00 pm
 
If you love to play Scrabble and want to improve your game, join others of all different skill levels at this monthly program. This is a casual gathering with no tournaments! This classic game was invented by an American in 1938 but not published until 1948, now it is a staple in gaming all over America.
We have a couple of boards available, but if you have one, bring yours.
NEW LOCATION: Come to the Learning and Book Sale Center at 45 W. Allen St., Mechanicsburg starting in January 2025.
Registration: Please register online.
Questions? Please email Joelene or call 717-766-0171.
 
Looking for Something New? Read, Watch, or Listen!
New Fiction Books • New Nonfiction Books • New Teen Books
 New Audiobooks • New DVDs
 
Have these notices emailed to you every month! Sign up here.
 
What's on Display
 
Display Case
This month our lobby display is by the Zonta Club of Harrisburg-Hershey. The Zonta Club of Harrisburg-Hershey began locally in 1980. The members work together to make a personal contribution to improving women’s lives in our local communities, as well as through the support of international efforts
 
The Zonta Club of Harrisburg-Hershey operates as a 501(c)4 organization. The Zonta Club of Harrisburg-Hershey Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, able to accept tax-deductible donations as allowed by law. 
 Read more at www.zontaharrisburg-hershey.org.
 
 
Did You Know?
 
One-on-One Tech Help
Get started on the internet, a computer, and other devices! Meet with one of our librarians for up to an hour of one-on-one assistance.
 
Please fill out this form or call 717-766-0171 to make an appointment. 
 
We can help you:
  • Learn to use your smartphone, eReader, or tablet.
  • Learn to navigate Windows operating system and Microsoft Office software on a laptop computer.
  • Learn to use library mobile apps like Libby, SmartALEC, Library2Go, and Beanstack on a smartphone or tablet.
  • Learn to use the library’s electronic resources and website on a laptop computer.
  • Fill out online forms for government assistance and job applications.
  • Create a resume.
  • Sign up for an email address and master basic email skills.
Available hours:
Monday10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Tuesday1:00 to 5:00 pm
Wednesday10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Thursday1:30 to 4:00 pm
Friday10:00 am to 5:00 pm
 
Questions? Please contact Arn at ahowald@cumberlandcountylibraries.org or 717-766-0171.
Note: We cannot offer any troubleshooting or repair service because we are not trained tech support. If your device is not functioning like it should, that is beyond our expertise. 
 
 
Book Donations are OPEN!
The book donation drop-off at the Learning and Book Sale Center (45 West Allen Street) has reopened following renovations. The drop-off location is now built into the front of the building and has a black steel door marked "book donation drop off", replacing the blue shed. As always, we appreciate your patience and continued donations.
 
 
 
STAR Services
 
Are you or a loved one unable to visit the library because of age, illness, or a disability? STAR service provides homebound adults with delivery of books, large-print books, audiobooks, music CDs, and DVDs.
 
 
Lions Club
The Joseph T. Simpson Public Library collects eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses for the Mechanicsburg Lions Club. The Lions then refurbish, repair, and refit glasses for people in need both locally and globally. Bring your old glasses with you on your next trip to the library and deposit them in the Lions Club container. 
Hours and Closings
Simpson Library Hours
 
Monday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sunday: 1:00 to 5:00 pm 
 
Weather-Related Closings
Whether we like it or not, winter weather may require us to open late, close early, or not open at all. To find out if the weather has affected our hours, visit our Website or our social media sites: Facebook, Twitter, or  Instagram. And of course you can always call us at 717-766-0171.
If we alter our hours, no items will be due and no holds will expire on the affected days.
Get Involved
Sponsorship Opportunities
 
You can help ensure that the Joseph T. Simpson Public Library will continue to provide valued quality library services for generations to come.
Become a Monthly Donor
 You can donate to the library monthly. It's easy and quick. Monthly gifts can be automatically made through PayPal or with a credit card.
[More.]
The Friends of the Simpson Library support the library with fundraising activities, community activities, library programs, and advocacy for quality library service.
 
Join now!
 
 
Community Aid:
Our Partner Number Is 10351
 
The bin is gone, but your donations can still support Simpson Library. Simply take your donation to your local Community Aid store and advise them that the proceeds go to partner number 10351.
Community Aid donates $0.06 to the library for every pound of clothing and shoes donated.
Bags for Books: For each reusable bag used by shoppers, Karns will donate 3 cents to local public libraries. Bring your reusable bags every time you shop at Karns and help support Simpson Library.
 
Thank You!
 
THANK YOU to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory and Buhrig’s Gathering Place for being a 2025 Library Pillar Sponsor! We are grateful for your generous support! 


THANK YOU to the Mechanicsburg Area Community Foundation for their grant to support our weekly children's programs in 2025.
 
 
THANK YOU to Members 1st Federal Credit Union for their support as an Annual Event and Holiday Sponsor in 2025.

About Us
Mission
 
Joseph T. Simpson Public Library 
is a community
center for learning and leisure.
 
 
Vision

Simpson Public Library is a dynamic community asset that inspires lifelong learning, advances literacy, and connects people with resources for knowledge, discovery, and enrichment.
 
 
Core Values
 
Lifelong Learning
Community
Service
Access
We Are a PA Forward Library
PA Forward is an initiative
of the Pennsylvania Library Association designed to increase awareness of
the vital role libraries play
in the well-being of
their communities.

Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
16 N Walnut St., Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania 17055
(717) 766-0171
https://www.cumberlandcountylibraries.org/SIM