STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Community Library will hold its annual giant block party from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12.

The evening will include free treats, a book giveaway, scavenger hunt, photo booth, and the chance to create an American flag out of red, white and blue notecards decorated by various community members.

This year’s free Book Around the Block! is assigned the theme, “Let Freedom Read,” reminding Wood River Valley residents that the united States is anchored in freedom, including intellectual freedom and the right to read and think and creately fearlessly.

Last year Sun Valley Resort bakers created a special cake for Book Around the Block!

“This is the event our team looks forward to all year,” said Carter Hedberg, Director of Philanthropy at The Community Library. “It's our opportunity to thank our longtime Library users and supporters while welcoming new friends into our community. Book around the Block! is simply a joyful evening. There truly is something for everyone, and each year we're delighted to see more and more families join the celebration.”

Here’s what’s in store, according to Kyla Merwin:

Bites & Treats

Enjoy tacos from Taqueria al Pastor, pizza bites from Smoky Mountain Pizzeria, delectable treats courtesy of Sun Valley, ice cream from Mountain High Creamery, and refreshing lemonade from On the Hop (with beer & wine available for purchase.

You, too, can take part in a unique photo op setting you in old Ketchum.

Book Giveaway

Take books from our collection home for keeps in all genres and age levels and snag a branded book tote while supplies last.

Bookmobile

Climb aboard the Library’s splashy new Bookmobile, which takes the joy of reading throughout Blaine County. In its first year on the road, more than 1,000 children received their very first library cards and checked out more than 4,000 books.

Game of “How in the World Did You Get to Sun Valley?”

Play the “How in the World?” game at the Wood River Museum of History + Culture, see the refreshed exhibit and earn a free sticker.

Scavenger Hunt

Search for clues in historic letters located in eight locations across campus, put together the secret message, and enter a drawing to win terrific prizes!

Kids’ Adventure Zone

Presented by The Children’s Museum of the Magic Valley, this area is packed with interactive fun.

Music in the Plaza

Festive music invites you to dance, groove or enjoy the ambiance of a curated playlist from DJ Blind Willy.

Spin Up a Deal at Gold Mine Thrift

Test your luck for a special discount at the Gold Mine Thrift with the chance to win up to 50 percent off your Gold Mine treasure or win a plush toy to take home with you.

Photo Booth

Join family and friends in the “Let Freedom Read!” photo booth and take away a memento.

Community Reading Flag

Join in the creating of an art installation made up of red, white, and blue notecards arranged to form an American flag, with each card decorated by a different community member. Together, these individual contributions create a shared visual representation of the many voices, stories, and perspectives that make up the community.

Lettercrafting: Pen to Paper

Take a few minutes to put pen to paper and write a letter to someone near or far. In conjunction with our current foyer exhibit, "The Art of Correspondence," The Library will provide stationary, envelopes, stickers, and ink stamps, as well as a free pen to everyone who wants to participate. And The Library will even mail the letter for you!

DID YOU KNOW?

Anyone can receive a free Library card at The Community Library, no matter where in the world they live.