Library Lets Loose is Saturday, Sept. 17. Everyone is eager this year to gather and celebrate in person.
“We’re so excited that we’re in person, and at the shiny newly-renovated Central Resource Library,” says Stephanie Stollsteimer, Johnson County Library Foundation Executive Director.
The festivities are the Foundation’s signature annual fund-raiser. Although virtual in 2020 and 2021, this year Library lovers (ages 21 and above) will congregate Sept. 17 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. for drinks and dancing, food and fun. It will be a great night out to support Lifelong Learning opportunities at the Library.
Space is limited and Reservations are encouraged. Get more info: jocolibraryfoundation.org/events
“We’re just thrilled to be in the Central Library,” Stollsteimer said. “There is a fabulous new Kids’ area. The Black & Veatch MakerSpace will be showcased too. It’s a chance for folks to get in and to see what a fabulous space it is. Oh, and to have a party!”
This year’s honorary hosts are Senia and Will Shields, long-time Johnson County Library supporters and champions of early literacy.
“The Library has been an incredible impact on our lives, and that’s why we’re excited to be honorary hosts for this year’s Library Lets Loose,” Will Shields said. “Once you become a lover of reading and a lover of books, you understand the important role libraries play in our lives. Our Johnson County Libraries are constantly creating new opportunities for library users.”
Senia Shields echoes that sentiment. “Literacy has been an important part of our work and we love the Library resources,” she said. “They open up new opportunities and are paramount for operating successfully in our world.”
The couple arrived in Kansas City in 1993 when Will Shields was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs as an offensive guard. That same year, they established the Will to Succeed Foundation, which provides financial and educational resources to those in need.
Shields played his entire 14-year career with the Chiefs, retiring at the end of the 2006 season. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015.
At its pre-pandemic peak, Library Lets Loose hosted about 500 people. Stollsteimer hopes for another great turnout this year. Central has plenty of room for a big crowd of Library lovers. Participants will sample cocktails and delicious bites from local restaurants. DJ Stann Tate makes a return appearance to lead everyone in letting loose on the dance floor in the Library.
Donors can win prizes, including several unique experiences. The event also features a scavenger hunt with a chance to register for a special prize. Patrons can view videos to learn more about the Library and its programs.
Donate online before and during the event: all donations are greatly appreciated. Gift dollars enhance Library services and programs above and beyond what taxpayer dollars provide. They are a vital part of Johnson County Library’s success.
Stollsteimer is especially gratified that Library supporters remained so generous during the COVID pandemic. Corporate sponsors lined up for the virtual Library Lets Loose events and are once again showing their support this year.