Where are you growing? Vision Board Workshop
2026-07-14 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
Join us at the Aries New Moon for a relaxed, hands-on workshop to create your own vision board—a simple, visual way of gathering images, symbols, and words that reflect what you want to grow in your life.
We’ll start by exploring a few astrological archetypes and what they can offer as points of reflection. Then, through intuitive drawing and easy, unstructured mark-making, you’ll begin to shape a personal map of your intentions for the year ahead. No art experience needed—just come as you are. Registration is required.
This is a space to slow down, listen inward, and give form to what’s taking root.
We’ll gather again on July 14 from 1–3 PM to reflect, share, and notice what’s shifted.

Teen Art Club
2026-07-14 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-07-21 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-07-28 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-04 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-08-11 16:00 - 18:00 | Smart Room, 120 W Main St, Ligonier, PA, 15658, United States
Teen Art Club for ages 12–18.A relaxed, creative space for teens to hang out, make art, and work on personal projects.
Start something new or bring a work-in-progress—supplies like paint, markers, colored pencils, modeling clay, and more are provided. Feel free to bring your own materials, too.
Run by teens, for teens. | Drop-in program. | Tuesdays, 4–6 PM

The American Revolution: "The Double Sevens" (1777) Princeton to Valley Forge
2026-07-14 17:30 - 18:45
In the war for our nation’s independence, all of the years were significant in various ways. One year, 1777, stands out as exceptionally pivotal with its high and low points that would shape the remainder of the war for independence. This presentation will examine how the year begins with the Battle of Princeton as the Americans expand on Washington’s famous Christmas cross of the Delaware River. Other major events discussed will range from the British campaign to take Philadelphia leading to the winter encampment at Valley Forge and the American siege and weighty victory at Saratoga. Interesting and consequential roles of individuals such as George Washington and Arthur St. Clair as well as various accounts will be discussed as we explore “The Double Sevens.”
About the Speaker:
Michael Giorgianni is a lifelong resident with a deep passion for American history, particularly the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. He has taught middle school social studies in the Hempfield Area School District for over 27 years, inspiring generations of students with his enthusiasm for the past. He frequently provides presentations in the Pittsburgh area to others with a passion for history. Michael is especially drawn to the Gettysburg campaign and the contributions of western Pennsylvanians during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars and is excited to share his research and meet fellow history enthusiasts. He has also seen his research extend beyond presentations with several articles published onto the website Emerging Civil War.
Michael has a Bachelors in Secondary Education (Social Studies) from Clarion University and a Masters in Education (Curriculum and Instruction) from the University of Pittsburgh.

Virtual Author Talk With Karin Slaughter
2026-07-14 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for a thrilling evening with acclaimed author Karin Slaughter as we chat about her North Falls series, consisting of We Are All Guilty Here, in which two teenage girls vanish in rural Georgia, and her upcoming sequel, The Secrets We Hide. Tuesday, July 14th at 7 PM ET via digital live-stream or on demand after the event.
Register and ask questions of the author here: https://libraryc.org/ligonierlibrary/176750

Mahjong
2026-07-15 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-22 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-07-29 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-05 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-08-12 13:00 - 15:00
Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Smart Room for an engaging game of Mahjong! Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, all are welcome to participate from 1 to 3 pm.
While the library provides one set, we encourage players to bring their own if possible. Don’t miss out on the fun and camaraderie as we gather to enjoy this timeless and strategic game together. See you there!

PA Room Closed 7/16
2026-07-16
The PA Room will be closed Thursday, July 16th. The room will reopen at 10:00am, Friday, July 17th. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Virtual Author Talk with Reyna Grande
2026-07-16 14:00 - 15:00
In her ambitious new memoir, Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forget, beloved bestselling author Reyna Grande illuminates the hidden cost of the American Dream and the complex journey of healing that follows survival. Join us Thursday, July 16th at 2 PM ET via digital live-stream or video on demand after the event.
Register and ask questions of the author here: https://libraryc.org/ligonierlibrary/177397

Silent Book Club
2026-07-16 17:30 - 18:45
Silent Book Club is a space for book lovers who enjoy reading in good company, without the pressure of assigned books or rules around structured discussions. Whether you’re working your way through the classics or diving into a new nonfiction title, our monthly meetups offer a relaxed and quiet environment where you can read at your own pace alongside fellow readers. Join us on the third Thursday of every month from 5:30-6:45 pm. It’s BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) and all readers are welcome, including but not limited to, ebooks, audiobooks, textbooks, and comic books. Afterward, you’re welcome to chat, share recommendations, or simply head home feeling refreshed. Learn more about the club here: https://silentbook.club/pages/about-us

Family Story Time
2026-07-21 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-28 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-04 11:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-11 11:00 - 12:00
Story Time: Stories, Songs, and Play
Children and caregivers are invited to a lively, interactive story time designed for ages 0–5. Expect stories, songs, movement, and a craft.
Each session ends with free playtime, giving children a chance to explore while caregivers connect with other local families. Wiggles & older siblings are always welcome.
Supports early literacy, social skills, and a love of books in a relaxed, playful setting.

CANCELLED - Powdermill Nature Explorer Series
2026-07-21 17:30 - 18:45
The July 21st talk has been cancelled. Please join us in August for a look at the Newt species in our area.
Presented by Powdermill Nature Reserve
Explore the plants, wildlife, and natural systems of western Pennsylvania through this engaging, all-ages lecture series. Each month, scientists and educators from Powdermill Nature Reserve share insights into the forests, fields, streams, birds, mammals, insects, and native plant communities that shape our region. Learn how species interact, how habitats support biodiversity, and how ongoing research is helping us better understand and care for the landscapes around us.
Held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 5:30–6:45 PM, each session features an accessible presentation followed by time for questions and conversation. Designed for curious minds of all ages, these talks offer an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the natural heritage of western Pennsylvania in a welcoming, community setting.
Upcoming Topics:
June 16 – Why do Powdermill Scientists Collect Poop?
July 21 – Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s a moth!
August 18 – Newts!

Lego Club
2026-07-23 17:00 - 18:00
Monthly LEGO Club for children of all ages.Build with jumbo blocks, Duplo train sets, and classic LEGO bricks.
Families can drop in, create at their own pace, and return each month to continue projects or try something new.
Creations will be featured in the library’s LEGO display.
Adult participation encouraged. | Drop-in program. | Come when you can!

Titles and Talk Book Discussion Group
2026-07-24 11:00 - 12:00
Titles & Talk Book Discussion Group delves into a wide variety of genres in both fiction and non-fiction. So, be prepared to push your comfort zone (possibly) as this includes everything from classics to biographies to science fiction to historical fiction to adventures. If you love both reading and talking about what you read, then this is the book discussion group you’ve been waiting for!
The group meets from 11 am to noon on the 4th Friday of March, May, July, and September, and the 3rd Friday in November. Registration is strongly requested to ensure that we set up enough seats and that we order enough copies for participants who wish to borrow that month’s title from us. Walk-ins are always welcome!
This month we are reading Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton — REGISTER HERE
Sign up for the Titles & Death eNewsletter to learn more about the Death in the Stacks and Titles & Talk book discussion groups.

Virtual Author Talk with Dr. Marisa Franco
2026-07-28 14:00 - 15:00
Join us in conversation with bestselling author Dr. Marisa Franco, one of the world’s leading experts in human connection on Tuesday, July 28th at 2 PM ET via digital live-stream or video on demand after the event.
Register and ask questions of the author here: https://libraryc.org/ligonierlibrary/178044

Virtual Talk: Julia Child's Kitchen
2026-08-04 14:00 - 15:00
Join us for a conversation that’s sure to warm your heart (and make your stomach rumble), as we delve into the legacy of cooking icon Julia Child with Smithsonian curator and public historian Paula J. Johnson, author of Julia Child’s Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space on Tuesday, August 4th at 2 PM ET via digital live-stream or on demand after the event.
Register and submit questions for the author here: https://libraryc.org/ligonierlibrary/102286

PA Room Closed 8/7
2026-08-07
The Pennsylvania Room will be closed, Friday August 7th and Saturday, August 8th. The room will reopen on Tuesday, August 11th. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Foothills Writers: Monthly Writing Group
2026-08-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Smart Room, 120 W Main St, Ligonier, PA, 15658, United States
The Foothills Writers are dedicated to inspiring and encouraging people with a passion for writing. Our objective is to meet writers’ needs regardless of their skill level or chosen genre. This is accomplished through mutual sharing, constructive critiques, and the exploration of writing topics.

The group meets monthly on the first Friday of each month from 1:00–3:00 p.m. in the library’s Smart Room (first floor).

Drop by to meet the members, learn more about the group, or simply enjoy a visit. Each meeting focuses on a new topic and may include guest speakers, such as authors or other experts who can provide insight into the many dimensions of the writing process.

You are also welcome to join the social hour before the meeting from noon–1:00 p.m., when members can bring a packed lunch and enjoy the fellowship of the group.

PA Room Closed 8/8
2026-08-08

Oscar's Reptile Encounters
2026-08-11 17:30 - 18:30
Get up close with some of nature’s most fascinating reptiles during this exciting live animal presentation by Oscar’s Reptile Encounters! Meet a variety of snakes, lizards, turtles, and other incredible creatures while learning about their habitats, behaviors, and the important roles they play in our environment. This interactive program is fun and educational for all ages.
This program is generously supported by the Louise Irwin Woods Fund.

Great Decisions
2026-08-15 10:30 - 12:00
The Ligonier Great Decisions group follows the national Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions’ 2026 program. A copy of the book, which includes all 8 topics that will be discussed, can be found at the Ligonier Valley Library – ask staff for assistance. If you would like your own copy, please attend a meeting and discuss getting a book with the moderator. For more information on the program, visit the national website at https://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/.
The Great Decisions group is free and new members are always welcome! Please bring an open mind and be ready for a great discussion!
The meetings are generally held on the third Saturday of each month from 10:30-12 pm at the Ligonier Valley Library. These are in-person meetings. If you are interested in attending virtually, please contact the library or the moderator, Jerry Hudson, at least 3 days before the meeting. If you have any questions, please stop in or call the library at 724-238-6451. You do not need to register for this program.
2026 Topics and Meeting Dates:

January 17, 2026: Debating America’s Global Role: America First versus Liberal Internationalism
February 21, 2026: The End of an Era: Trump’s Tariffs in Historical Perspective
March 21, 2026: US – China Relations in the New Trump Era
April 18, 2026: The Third Nuclear Age: Trump, The Order, and the Bomb
NO SESSIONS IN MAY, JUNE, JULY
August 15, 2026: Ukraine and the Future of European Security
September 19, 2026: Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
October 17, 2026: US Engagement with Africa
November 21, 2026: The Future of Human Rights and International Law in a Divided World
NO SESSION IN DECEMBER
