Exhibit: The Life and Legacy of The Marquis de Lafayette

Step into the remarkable life and legacy of the Marquis de Lafayette, a Frenchman who volunteered his service to the American cause during the Revolutionary War. Arriving in America in 1777, Lafayette became a trusted officer and confidant of General George Washington a......More

Step into the remarkable life and legacy of the Marquis de Lafayette, a Frenchman who volunteered his service to the American cause during the Revolutionary War. Arriving in America in 1777, Lafayette became a trusted officer and confidant of General George Washington and fought in key engagements at Brandywine, Gloucester, Monmouth Courthouse, and Yorktown. He also spent the winter of 1777–78 with the Continental Army at Valley Forge. This traveling, six-banner exhibit, presented by the American Friends of Lafayette, explores Lafayette’s military service, his role in strengthening the Franco-American Alliance, and his lifelong commitment to human rights. Through historic images, carefully researched text, and engaging graphic design, visitors will discover the many dimensions of Lafayette’s life and his enduring connection to the United States. The exhibit also highlights Lafayette’s celebrated return to America in 1824, when President James Monroe invited him to visit as the nation’s official “Guest of the Nation.” As the last surviving major general of the Continental Army, Lafayette traveled approximately 6,000 miles through 24 states during his 13-month tour, receiving enthusiastic welcomes along the way. On display in the PA Room Hallway through November 17, the six floor-to-ceiling panels offer an engaging look at Lafayette’s life, career, humanitarian ideals, and lasting American legacy. The exhibit also connects Lafayette’s story with that of George Washington and explores the 2002 proclamation naming Lafayette an honorary citizen of the United States. As America commemorates its 250th anniversary in 2026, this exhibit offers an opportunity to rediscover Lafayette’s extraordinary contributions to the American Revolution and the ideals that continued to shape his life long after the war.

Library Closed 11/11

The library will be closed Wednesday, November 11th in observance of the Veterans Day Holiday. We will reopen at 10:00am on Thursday, November 12th.

Virtual Author Talk with Paul Vigna

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with veteran journalist Paul Vigna as we examine his provocative book, The Almightier: How Money Became God, Greed Became Virtue, and Debt Became Sin on Wednesday, November 11th at 2 pm via digital live-stream or video on demand a......More

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with veteran journalist Paul Vigna as we examine his provocative book, The Almightier: How Money Became God, Greed Became Virtue, and Debt Became Sin on Wednesday, November 11th at 2 pm via digital live-stream or video on demand after the event. Register and ask questions of the author here: https://libraryc.org/ligonierlibrary/219067

Family Craft Night

Get creative together at Family Craft Night! Families are invited to spend time creating, crafting, and having fun with a new theme each month. Each month will feature a different hands-on project or activity using a variety of fun and creative materials. This month we’......More

Get creative together at Family Craft Night! Families are invited to spend time creating, crafting, and having fun with a new theme each month. Each month will feature a different hands-on project or activity using a variety of fun and creative materials. This month we’ll be making Thanksgiving inspired crafts!  

Leaders in Ligonier

Make your voice heard and become a community changemaker at the monthly meeting of Leaders in Ligonier on Friday, November 13, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM! This leadership group is for dynamic teens and tweens ages 10 to 17 who want to directly shape the library and make a ......More

Make your voice heard and become a community changemaker at the monthly meeting of Leaders in Ligonier on Friday, November 13, from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM! This leadership group is for dynamic teens and tweens ages 10 to 17 who want to directly shape the library and make a positive impact throughout Ligonier.  As a Leader, you will take charge of your library experience by advising on exciting new teen programs and selecting the latest books, manga, and graphic novels for the Young Adult collection. Your ideas will directly influence library services and community outreach projects. Best of all, attending this monthly meeting is a fun, rewarding way to earn community service hours for school, honor societies, or resume building. Come lead the way, share your ideas, and help make Ligonier a better place for everyone!

Saturday Story Time: The Day the Crayons Quit the Library

Celebrate your favorite colorful characters with us on the Day the Crayons Quit the Library! Inspired by Drew Daywalt’s hilarious bestselling book, this special event invites young book lovers and artists to a lively reading of the story. We will explore what happens wh......More

Celebrate your favorite colorful characters with us on the Day the Crayons Quit the Library! Inspired by Drew Daywalt’s hilarious bestselling book, this special event invites young book lovers and artists to a lively reading of the story. We will explore what happens when the crayons get tired of their usual jobs and decide to strike—and figure out how we can make them feel appreciated again! After the interactive reading, the fun continues with a variety of hands-on crafts, exciting games, and engaging activities themed around the story. It is the perfect blend of storytelling, laughter, and creativity for young minds.

Family Story Time

Story Time: Stories, Songs, and Play Children and caregivers are invited to a lively, interactive story time designed for ages 0–5. Expect stories, songs, movement, and a craft. Each session ends with free playtime, giving children a chance to explore while caregivers c......More

Story Time: Stories, Songs, and Play Children and caregivers are invited to a lively, interactive story time designed for ages 0–5. Expect stories, songs, movement, and a craft. Each session ends with free playtime, giving children a chance to explore while caregivers connect with other local families. Wiggles & older siblings are always welcome. Supports early literacy, social skills, and a love of books in a relaxed, playful setting.

Powdermill Nature Explorer Series

Presented by Powdermill Nature Reserve Explore the plants, wildlife, and natural systems of western Pennsylvania through this engaging, all-ages lecture series. Each month, scientists and educators from Powdermill Nature Reserve share insights into the forests, fields, ......More

Presented by Powdermill Nature Reserve Explore the plants, wildlife, and natural systems of western Pennsylvania through this engaging, all-ages lecture series. Each month, scientists and educators from Powdermill Nature Reserve share insights into the forests, fields, streams, birds, mammals, insects, and native plant communities that shape our region. Learn how species interact, how habitats support biodiversity, and how ongoing research is helping us better understand and care for the landscapes around us. Held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month from 5:30–6:45 PM, each session features an accessible presentation followed by time for questions and conversation. Designed for curious minds of all ages, these talks offer an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the natural heritage of western Pennsylvania in a welcoming, community setting. Upcoming Topics: September 15: The Poison Garden: Deadly Plants of the Laurel Highlands October 20: Zombie Deer: How Infectious Diseases Can Change Animal Behavior November 17: The Art and Science of Botanical Illustration December 15: Opossums: North America’s Only Marsupial

Mahjong

Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Smart Room for an engaging game of Mahjong! Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, all are welcome to participate from 1 to 3 pm.  While the library provides one set, we encourage players to bring their own if possi......More

Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Smart Room for an engaging game of Mahjong! Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, all are welcome to participate from 1 to 3 pm.  While the library provides one set, we encourage players to bring their own if possible. Don’t miss out on the fun and camaraderie as we gather to enjoy this timeless and strategic game together. See you there! 

Homeschool Hub

Homeschoolers are invited to explore a new topic each month through hands-on activities, experiments, and creative projects at the library! Each session offers an opportunity to learn, discover, and have fun while exploring a variety of subjects. Activities are designed......More

Homeschoolers are invited to explore a new topic each month through hands-on activities, experiments, and creative projects at the library! Each session offers an opportunity to learn, discover, and have fun while exploring a variety of subjects. Activities are designed with homeschoolers in mind and provide an engaging way to learn, experiment, and connect with other families. This month, we are going wild! Representatives from Living Treasures Animal Park will visit the library with some of their amazing animal friends. Homeschoolers will get an up-close look at these incredible creatures, learn fascinating facts about their habitats and behaviors, and discover the wonders of the animal kingdom firsthand.

Family Chess Club

Every played chess or wanted to learn? Instructors will be present to assist in teaching the game. Drop in for casual games, practice strategies, or try out new moves at your own pace. Players of all skill levels are welcome, and families can play together.  For ages 17......More

Every played chess or wanted to learn? Instructors will be present to assist in teaching the game. Drop in for casual games, practice strategies, or try out new moves at your own pace. Players of all skill levels are welcome, and families can play together.  For ages 17 and under. | No registration required. | Drop-in program. | Come when you can!

Silent Book Club

Silent Book Club is a space for book lovers who enjoy reading in good company, without the pressure of assigned books or rules around structured discussions. Whether you’re working your way through the classics or diving into a new nonfiction title, our monthly meetups ......More

Silent Book Club is a space for book lovers who enjoy reading in good company, without the pressure of assigned books or rules around structured discussions. Whether you’re working your way through the classics or diving into a new nonfiction title, our monthly meetups offer a relaxed and quiet environment where you can read at your own pace alongside fellow readers. Join us on the third Thursday of every month from 5:30-6:45 pm. It’s BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) and all readers are welcome, including but not limited to, ebooks, audiobooks, textbooks, and comic books. Afterward, you’re welcome to chat, share recommendations, or simply head home feeling refreshed. Learn more about the club here: https://silentbook.club/pages/about-us

Virtual Author Talk with Rebecca Roanhorse

Step into a sprawling world of celestial magic, political intrigue, and ancient prophecies with New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Roanhorse as we dive deep into her acclaimed Between Earth and Sky trilogy on Thursday, November 19th at 7 pm via digital live-strea......More

Step into a sprawling world of celestial magic, political intrigue, and ancient prophecies with New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Roanhorse as we dive deep into her acclaimed Between Earth and Sky trilogy on Thursday, November 19th at 7 pm via digital live-stream or video on demand after the event. Register and ask questions of the author here: https://libraryc.org/ligonierlibrary/220465

Teen/Tween LEGO

Unwind after a busy school day and get creative at the library. Designed as an after-school program for ages 10 to 17, this program offers the perfect space to hang out, meet new friends, and build together.This is a drop-in program, so there is no need to register in a......More

Unwind after a busy school day and get creative at the library. Designed as an after-school program for ages 10 to 17, this program offers the perfect space to hang out, meet new friends, and build together.This is a drop-in program, so there is no need to register in advance—just show up ready to create! Whether you want to design your own custom masterpieces or build from instructions, the library provides all the LEGO bricks and sets you will need to bring your ideas to life. Come hang out, share your building skills, and see what you can create!

Titles and Talk Book Discussion Group

Titles & Talk Book Discussion Group delves into a wide variety of genres in both fiction and non-fiction. So, be prepared to push your comfort zone (possibly) as this includes everything from classics to biographies to science fiction to historical fiction to adventures......More

Titles & Talk Book Discussion Group delves into a wide variety of genres in both fiction and non-fiction. So, be prepared to push your comfort zone (possibly) as this includes everything from classics to biographies to science fiction to historical fiction to adventures. If you love both reading and talking about what you read, then this is the book discussion group you’ve been waiting for! This month we are reading The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese: REGISTER HERE The group meets from 11 am to noon on the 4th Friday of March, May, July, and September, and the 3rd Friday in November. Registration is strongly requested to ensure that we set up enough seats and that we order enough copies for participants who wish to borrow that month’s title from us. Walk-ins are always welcome! Sign up for the Titles & Death eNewsletter to learn more about the Death in the Stacks and Titles & Talk book discussion groups.

Great Decisions

The Ligonier Great Decisions group follows the national Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions’ 2026 program. A copy of the book, which includes all 8 topics that will be discussed, can be found at the Ligonier Valley Library – ask staff for assistance. If you wou......More

The Ligonier Great Decisions group follows the national Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decisions’ 2026 program. A copy of the book, which includes all 8 topics that will be discussed, can be found at the Ligonier Valley Library – ask staff for assistance. If you would like your own copy, please attend a meeting and discuss getting a book with the moderator. For more information on the program, visit the national website at https://www.fpa.org/great_decisions/. The Great Decisions group is free and new members are always welcome! Please bring an open mind and be ready for a great discussion! The meetings are generally held on the third Saturday of each month from 10:30-12 pm at the Ligonier Valley Library. These are in-person meetings. If you are interested in attending virtually, please contact the library or the moderator, Jerry Hudson, at least 3 days before the meeting. If you have any questions, please stop in or call the library at 724-238-6451. You do not need to register for this program. 2026 Topics and Meeting Dates: January 17, 2026: Debating America’s Global Role: America First versus Liberal InternationalismFebruary 21, 2026: The End of an Era: Trump’s Tariffs in Historical PerspectiveMarch 21, 2026: US – China Relations in the New Trump EraApril 18, 2026: The Third Nuclear Age: Trump, The Order, and the BombNO SESSIONS IN MAY, JUNE, JULYAugust 15, 2026: Ukraine and the Future of European SecuritySeptember 19, 2026: Multilateral Institutions in a Changing World OrderOctober 17, 2026: US Engagement with AfricaNovember 21, 2026: The Future of Human Rights and International Law in a Divided WorldNO SESSION IN DECEMBER