Adult Programs




Chronic Wasting Disease Presentation at the M.S. Kirby Library

PA Game Commission Wildlife Biologist Robyn Crouthamel will present an informational program on Chronic Wasting Disease that affects the deer family on Wednesday, November 19 at 6:00pm at the Marian Sutherland Kirby Library. Chronic Wasting Disease is a highly contagious, incurable neurological disease caused by a misshapen protein known as a prion. CWD is a threat to deer and elk in Pennsylvania. Officials from the PA Game Commission say CWD can have an incubation period of up to 18 months, meaning a deer could be infected but not show any physical signs of illness.

The disease is primarily spread through bodily fluids, either through direct animal-to-animal contact or indirectly through prion-contaminated environments such as soil and water sources. CWD infected deer shed prions through saliva, urine and feces. In addition, infected carcasses contribute to environmental contamination. As a result, feeding deer is strongly discouraged and is illegal within Pennsylvania's existing areas established to try to control the disease's spread, called Disease Management Areas (DMAs). Portions of Carbon, Columbia, Luzerne and Schuylkill counties are in Disease Management Area 9 (DMA 9). Because much is still unknown about CWD, limiting exposure of all species to CWD is very important.

Register by calling 570-474-9313 or visit the Circulation Desk at 35 Kirby Ave., Mountaintop.




Socrates Cafe is back! The Marian Sutherland Kirby Library has resumed regular Socrates Cafe meetings on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Individuals with inquisitive minds are welcome to join in lively conversation.

Socrates Cafe is a gathering where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the Socratic Method. The topics to be discussed are chosen by the participants.

Participants are encouraged to come prepared to discuss important ideas thoughtfully and honestly, to respectfully question the ideas of others, and to carefully examine what you perceive to be logical inconsistencies.

The discussions will be facilitated by Steve Wallace who participates in several Socrates Cafe groups locally. The discussion will take place in the Community Room of the library. The library is located at 35 Kirby Ave., Mountaintop. Call 570-474-9313 for more information.




Seniors Connect Offered at M.S. Kirby Library

Seniors Connect: Bridging the Tech Gap
Do you have a friend or family member who could benefit from a little extra help with their cell phone, laptop, or tablet? If so, consider signing them up for Seniors Connect! This fantastic program pairs seniors with tech-savvy teenagers, creating a unique opportunity for learning and connection.

What is Seniors Connect?
Seniors Connect is a library initiative designed to help older adults become more comfortable and proficient with technology. Whether it's learning how to send an email, navigate social media, or troubleshoot a device issue, participants can receive personalized assistance in a friendly and supportive environment.

How Does it Work?
    - One-on-One Sessions: Seniors will have the chance to sit down for an with a knowledgeable teenager who can guide them through any tech-related questions.
    - Hands-On Learning: The program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, allowing participants to practice new skills immediately.
    - Tailored Assistance: Each session is tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring they get the most out of their experience.

How to Sign Up
Hourly classes are offered every Friday at 3:30pm and every other Saturday at 10:00am and 2:00pm.
To register for Seniors Connect, simply stop by the Circulation Desk or give us a call at 570-474-9313 We are located at 35 Kirby Avenue, Mountain Top. We will be happy to assist you in setting up an appointment.
Help spread the word about Seniors Connect and empower the seniors in your life to embrace the digital world with confidence and ease!