On the Book Front:

An exciting lineup
of events in 2026 ...

The following column was written by Karin Thomas, Director of the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library, located at 106 First St. in Odessa.

Spring has finally arrived, and with it comes the return of our Seed Library, thanks to Cornell Cooperative Extension of Schuyler County. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, we invite you to stop in, browse our wide selection of gardening books and resources, and begin planning your garden.

We’re also looking to expand our volunteer roster. Just 4-6 hours a month can make a meaningful impact, and our friendly staff will provide all the necessary training. To learn more, contact Karin Thomas at (607) 594-2791, email pertersonlibrary@stls.org, or stop by the library to pick up an application.

Behind the scenes, library staff have been hard at work all winter writing grants, developing new programs, and planning an exciting lineup of events for 2026. We’re thrilled to share a preview of what’s ahead:

Odessa Community Jam will take place on May 31 from 12 noon-3 p.m. on Church Street in Odessa. This lively event will feature two stages of live music, a chicken barbecue hosted by The Bucket Bar and Grill, wine and spirits tastings, corn hole, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Rain or shine, bring a lawn chair and settle in for an afternoon of fun and great music. The event is hosted by the Odessa Coffee Depot, the Bucket Bar and Grill, Bub’s Spirits, the Village of Odessa, and the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library.

On June 11 from 4-6 p.m., join us for the Schuyler PRIDE Celebration at 301 Clawson Blvd. in Montour Falls. This inclusive, family-friendly event will feature live music, face and body painting, hair tinsel, a beading station, yard games, and a variety of crafts and activities, along with local and regional vendors. The celebration is hosted by the Montour Falls Memorial Library, Watkins Glen Public Library, Elizabeth B. Pert Library, and the Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library, with support from Southern Finger Lakes Pride. It also coincides with the opening day of the Montour Falls Farmer’s Market, which will include a large and diverse plant sale.

Odessa Community Day returns on July 25 from 12 noon-5 p.m. on Church Street in Odessa. This year, the library is excited to introduce the creation of an Odessa Time Capsule with more details to come. Visitors can also enjoy book sales and giveaways, face and body painting, outdoor games, friendship bracelet making, and other activities.

Our Summer Learning Program -- “Unearth a Story!” -- runs from July 11 through August 13, with weekly activities, special guests, and opportunities to win prizes when you meet your summer reading goal. The program will wrap up with a collaborative Summer Learning Party at the Montour Falls Farmer’s Market on August 13 from 4-6 p.m.

We’ll close out the summer with our Pot-Luck Picnic and Great Pie Bake-Off on August 30 from 2-4 p.m. at 1928 County Road 15 in Odessa. Bring a dish to share and enjoy live music with Nothin’ Special. More details are coming soon.

These projects are made possible with funds from The United Way of Schuyler County, and the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with support of the Office of the Governor and New York State Legislature and administered by The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes.

For a full calendar of events, visit duttonpetersonlibrary.org or call (607) 594-2791. We look forward to seeing you at the library and out in the community this season!