Kids encouraged to explore Westmoreland libraries during annual Saturday event

Scavenger hunts, crafts and robotics are among activities planned at several Westmoreland County libraries to attract young patrons Saturday during Take Your Child to the Library Day.

Families can stop in any time during designated hours to explore fun and educational resources at their local library.

A maker space at the Rostraver Public Library is home to robotics and engineering kits that children of different age levels can use.

“They can play with some of them,” said library associate Laura Daugherty. “They can use an iPad to control Dash and Dot. Other kits are more involved, where they can make circuits.”

The robotics equipment is available regularly at the library. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, visitors will find added craft activities at the Rostraver library, 700 Plaza Drive.

Scavenger hunts will be featured from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Adams Memorial Library, 1112 Ligonier St. in Latrobe, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Public Library, 120 S. Church St.

“Our scavenger hunt will introduce kids to the different areas in the children’s section of the library,” said Tracy Trotter, Adams library director. “If they can find all the things in the library, they’ll get a special bookmark.”

The Mt. Pleasant library also will feature a hot chocolate bar, games and prizes.

Jeannette Public Library will welcome visitors from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 500 Magee Ave. The library will offer crafts that children can complete at the library or take home.

They also can test their visual skills by perusing books filled with optical illusions. Refreshments will be available.

Originating in Connecticut in 2011, Take Your Child to the Library Day is observed at libraries around the globe, usually on the first Saturday in February.