Families can sign up for library cards, climb on fire trucks, eat free ice cream and drop off books for local kids at the 4th Annual Library Card Sign Up Fest on Sunday, Sept. 13, at the Chester County Library in Exton.

The free event, co-hosted by state Sen. Carolyn Comitta and the Chester County Library, runs from 1 to 3 p.m. at 450 Exton Square Parkway. It's the fourth year Comitta and the library have teamed up for the back-to-school celebration, which coincides with the national Library Card Sign-Up Month campaign the American Library Association has run every September since 1987.

This year's lineup includes STEM and Makerspace activities, LEGO building, bubbles, bookmark crafting with Miss Pennsylvania's Teen Anna Rinnier, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine's Zoo & STEM on Wheels, Maggie Moo's ice cream, live music from Michael Kropp and a StoryWalk story time led by Comitta herself.

The Touch-a-Truck portion will bring police, fire and EMS vehicles into the library's main parking lot, which will be closed to regular traffic during the fest. Parking is available in the garage across the street and at nearby lots.

Organizers are also collecting new or gently used books for children and teens ages 0–18, with donations going to local nonprofits that serve young readers.

"Whether you need to apply for your library card, or you already have one, we welcome you join us and explore all the possibilities available at our free, public libraries," Comitta said in an Aug. 10 announcement on her official website.

Comitta, who grew up in West Goshen and represents the 19th Senatorial District covering part of Chester County, also serves on the state Senate Education Committee. She was the first woman to serve as mayor of West Chester.

No registration is required. More information and library hours are available at chescolibraries.org.

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