SELINSGROVE, Pa. — Inside the Rudy Gelnett Library in Selinsgrove you'll find more than just books this time of year. The Christmas spirit is spread throughout the first and second floors of the building.
"Groups and individuals and churches get together and decorate a tree according to a theme of a book that they've chosen," said Mona Sheaffer, Tree Fest of Children's Books co-chair.
This is the library's 21st annual Tree Fest of Children's Books. Community members can come in and get lost in the maze of decorated Christmas trees all while helping out the library for just $1.
"They will come in and pick their favorite and cast a vote, and then that's part of our fundraiser for the year with the monies that we receive from that, monies that we receive from tree fest goes to next year's summer reading program," said Sheaffer.
Which is one of the biggest programs the library offers. 300 children signed up for this past summer's reading program.
"It's always exciting to see all of those kids coming in and getting points not just for reading but showing up at programs," said David Bauman, Snyder County Libraries executive director.
It's also a way for children and adults to branch out and discover new books. Educational and community organizations participate in the event as well.
"You got the community pool, that has a wreath down there you already saw, a church as well, several classes from the local schools putting together trees," said Bauman.
Even library staff joined in on the fun by creating a Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory-themed tree.
Community members can vote on the trees now through Friday, January 3rd.