There’s something special about having a place in town where you can simply be—where you’re welcome to sit, think, talk, and connect without even having to buy so much as a cup of coffee. That’s what the Skaneateles Library is for so many in our community: a true “third space” that’s not home, not work, but something just as important.

It’s a place that meets people where they are—whether that’s a parent looking for storytime, a teen seeking a quiet spot to study, or someone craving thoughtful conversation in good company. The library isn’t just about books (though we love those, too). It’s about creating space for shared experiences, honest dialogue, and the kind of community connection that feels increasingly rare.

Take the four-part program the library co-hosted with the Skaneateles Central School District focusing on Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, a book exploring the negative mental-health impacts of the shift  from a play-based childhood to a screen-based childhood. 

Community members came together in a true “no-judgement zone” (or in this case a “no-judgement Zoom”) for guided discussions that were eye-opening, thoughtful, and—at times—quite personal. People left with new understanding, real tools, and maybe most importantly, the sense that they weren’t alone in figuring all this out.

Then there was the screening of The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause, a documentary that doesn’t shy away from topics too often swept under the rug. Popcorn was served, and minds were blown. After the film, local OBGYNs Dr. Amy MacDonald and Dr. Tanya Paul led a panel discussion where attendees asked questions, shared experiences, and had some real talk about a subject that affects half the population but rarely gets its due. It was informative, vulnerable, and—believe it or not—a lot of fun.

These are just a couple examples of how the library is leading conversations that matter, right here in real life. In a world of group texts and social media comment sections, that’s something that’s not only worth supporting, but celebrating. 

So whether you’re looking to learn something new, meet your neighbors, or just feel a little more connected to the place you call home, the Skaneateles Library is ready to welcome you in. Because around here, community isn’t just a word—it’s something we build together.