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It’s that time of year when we've historically hosted the Friends’ Sizzlin’ Summer Book Sale. Last year's sale was canceled owing to COVID, and we’re sorry to say that this year's sale has been canceled as well.

Never fear: you still have many ways to purchase lightly-used books and AV materials AND benefit JCL at the same time!

Themed sales have been running all year long at the two Friends Bookstores located at Antioch and Blue Valley Libraries. Many titles end up being cheaper than they might have been at a big book sale! Plus, Friends members receive 20% off regularly-priced items purchased at the stores. Bookstore information is posted on the Friends website.

Friends' internet sales have grown extensively over the past year. Shop their online storefront anytime, and save a few dollars on shipping by making arrangements for local pickup.



Stay tuned to the Friends website and social media for more sales news; in-person sales are returning this Fall!

Cedar Roe Library will reopen its doors on June 21 at 9 am, after the completion of a critical upgrade to the building's HVAC system, as well as other exciting improvements to enhance your experience.

During its recent closure, Cedar Roe Library received a new HVAC system, new shelving and a new building layout that maximizes natural light and patron convenience, a full inventory and a deep cleaning. We also piloted a curbside holds pickup service that allowed us to serve nearly 2000 patrons during the building's closure. This service will continue to operate after the building reopens.

We anticipate Cedar Roe closing briefly later this Summer for a roofing replacement. Watch jocolibrary.org and @jocolibrary on social media for announcements. Thank you for your patience as we improve our facilities!

Antioch Library is relocating to the Merriam Community Center campus, and we want to hear from you!



The Library is working with Dake Wells Architecture to design the new Library for the future, and to meet the changing needs of the community. Join us for a live input session where you will meet the architects, learn about the project, and ideate about your future library. 

When: Wednesday, July 7 from 6 - 7:30 PM*

Where: Future site of the Library @ Merriam Community Center campus

This open-house-style program will be outside in person. Travel to the Merriam Community Center parking structure, 6040 Slater St, Merriam, KS, and then join the team under the tents on the adjacent green space, the future site of the Library.

*Note: Due to wet site conditions and the chance of rain, this event was rescheduled from June 30.

Learn more about the Antioch Library Replacement project and additional ways of engagement via Library OnDemand. And, follow @jocolibrary on social media for project updates and photos. 

Construction will occur after the design is finalized with completion anticipated in 2023.

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We strive to host inclusive, accessible events and provide information online that enables all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully with Library services. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact us info@jocolibrary.org or 913.826.4600.

As you very well know, June is National Give a Bunch of Balloons Month. What do you do? Find someone in need of encouragement and brighten their day with a balloon bouquet! This practice began as a way to bring joy to children suffering illness. Use #GiveABunchOfBalloonsMonth to share on social media.

We'd like to bring you some smiles too. We can't give you balloons, but we sure can point you towards some historic pictures of balloons. Remember, jocohistory.org is the place to time travel through local history. Search "balloon" for a colorful adventure. Be sure to follow our hashtag on Twitter!

Happy Throwback Thursday! Some call it the best day of the week.