Suffolk County Public Libraries
In the coming months the libraries from the Suffolk County that will be participating in The Great Give Back 2024 will be listed here! Check back often for updates; details about programs will begin to be shared around the beginning of September. Please contact libraries directly for questions regarding offered programming.
Click here to view past GGB events from Suffolk County Public Libraries.
The Great Give Back Food Drive
October 2nd – November 12th
Food is a human right and is an immediate and tangible way to help someone. Every donation of food helps.
We accept donations of non-perishable food in jars, cans and sealed packets. We cannot accept anything homemade, expired, past its “best by” date, or opened items. Donations will be accepted October 2-November 12.
All donated items will be given to the Amagansett Food Pantry for distribution.
The donation box will be located inside of the library’s front door.
The Great Give Back is a community service initiative created by the Suffolk County Public Library Directors Association and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System, in conjunction with the Nassau Library System. The mission of The Great Give Back is to provide opportunities for the patrons of the Public Libraries of New York State to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences.
No registration, open to all
The Great Give Back Blood Drive
October 30th from 11:00AM – 5:00PM
Adults
The drive is hosted by Amagansett Free Library and run by New York Blood Center.
Please visit our website, amagansettlibrary.org for eligibility requirements and to make an appointment.
Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library
Hygiene Drive
September 3rd – October 18th
The Library is collecting travel size hygiene products to be used in our Clean Cabinet. The Clean Cabinet is located in the Library entrance and is open to all in our community. Some item suggestions are: Shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and deodorant. Please bring all items to the Children’s Services Desk.
No registration is required.
Great Give Back Volunteers
October 19th from 11:00AM – 3:00PM
Ages 13-17
Earn up to 6 hours of community service during our Great Give Back event at the library! There will be various activities and crafts to participate in to earn hours! This year teens will be making bookmarks for outreach events, birthday bags for kids and participating in a collaborative library art display.
Registration Required. Brentwood School District Residents Only.
The Great Give Back Week
October 14th – 19th
Ages 9-12
The Great Give Back is a way for the patrons of the Public Libraries of New York State to take part in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. Stop by the Children’s Desk to pick up a project to complete for our community.
No registration is required, but must be a Brentwood resident.
Center Moriches Free Public Library
The Great Give Back: Trick or Treat Bags
October 19th
Grab-and-Go
6th – 12th Graders
For the Great Give Back, this year we will be making Trick-or-Treat bags to give to the children in our community. We will let you know when you can pick up your kit. Decorate the bags at home and return them by Friday, October 18th to earn an hour of community service.
Valid Center Moriches library card is required to register for this program. Registration begins on Saturday, October 5th.
Donation Drive
October 1st – 31st
The Cold Spring Harbor Library will be holding a shelf-stable food donation drive all of October. These items will be donated to the Helping Hand Rescue Mission in Huntington Station to benefit local families in need. Our donation bin will be featured at our Fall Festival on October 12th.
All Ages. No registration required, simply drop off in our donation bin in the lobby.
Donation Tote Bag Decorating
October 16th from 6:30PM – 8:00PM
Grades 6-12
Earn 1.5 hours of community service credit by assisting us making decorative tote bags, which will be filled with supplies from our October food drive to benefit Helping Hand Rescue Mission.
Registration required. Program conducted by Project Excel. Limited to patrons of the Huntington township.
https://live-coldspringharbor.pantheonsite.io/event/donation-tote-bags-23109
The Great Give Back: Rescue Pet Supply Drive
September 3rd – October 18th
Donate items, including new or gently used toys, blankets, cleaning supplies, unopened non-perishable pet food, treats, etc., to our Rescue Pet Supply Drive between September 3rd – October 18th. All items will be donated to various Long Island-based rescues for our Great Give Back Event.
No Registration Required
Supply Drive will be located adjacent to the Circulation Desk.
The Great Give Back: Rescue Dog Adoption Fair
October 19th from 12:00PM – 2:00PM
Whether you are looking to adopt or to say hello to a host of furry friends, join us at the Commack Public Library from 12 – 2PM on Saturday, October 19th. We’ll be celebrating the Great Give Back as we host several Long Island-based rescues to help displaced dogs find their perfect “Fur”-ever homes. Meet dogs from Little Animal Shelter, Last Chance Animal Rescue, and Smithtown Animal Shelter!
No Registration Required.
Teen Volunteer: Great Give Back Rescue Pet Toy Making
October 19th from 12:00PM – 2:00PM
Teens Grades 6-12
Join Librarian Jay and Ms. Michelle for the Great Give Back Event! Teens will earn two hours of community service by creating fun pet toys! All items will be donated to various Long Island-based rescues for our Great Give Back Event. Earn an additional hour of community service by bringing 5 items to donate to our Rescue Pet Supply Drive.
Commack School District Teens Grades 6-12 only; Registration Required.
Teen Volunteer: Great Give Back Crafting With WCLI
October 19th from 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Teens Grades 6-12
Earn an hour of community service by creating bird-themed bookmarks and meeting with the spokesperson -and spokesbirds- of WCLI: Wildlife Center of Long Island, an animal hospital and education center! Learn about wildlife rehabilitation and meet some of WCLI’s rescues, including owls, falcons, and other incredible birds! Your bookmarks will be donated to the Bald Eagles of Centerport Day, an event that fundraises for wildlife rehabilitation yearly through community donations and volunteers.
Commack School District Teens Grades 6-12 only; Registration Required.
Care Kit Donations
September 9th – October 18th
The Library will be collecting the following items to create care kits for those in need. Items can be dropped off beginning Tuesday, September 3. The donation box will be in the main lobby until Friday, October 18.
Gallon-size plastic bags, Water bottles, Socks, Soft granola bar or cereal bar, Fruit snack or applesauce cup, Crackers with peanut butter or cheese, Hand wipes, Pack of Kleenex (small), Sunscreen, Maxi pads, Toothbrush and toothpaste, Nail clippers, Band Aids, Chapstick, Comb or small brush, Mints, cough drops or gum.
No registration required.
Care Kit Assembly
October 19th from 12:30PM – 1:30PM
Make a positive impact in your community. Assemble care kits for those in need, to be delivered by the library to local organizations.
Adults & School Age Children with Caregiver
Registration begins Saturday, October 5 – District Residents Only
The Great Give Back: Family Carnival
October 19th from 2:00PM – 2:45PM & 3:00PM – 3:45PM
Celebrate the Great Give Back by attending our Family Carnival to enjoy a variety of carnival games! Give back by donating a non-perishable food item for our Outdoor Food Pantry.
Children of all ages with caregiver. Program content will appeal to children 3 years and older.
Registration begins on Saturday, October 5. District Residents Only
Great Giveback Volunteers
October 19th from 1:30PM – 4:30PM
Assist with events at our carnival.
Grades 6-12
Registration begins Saturday, October 5 – District Residents Only
Volunteer Fair
October 15th from 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Representatives from organizations will discuss local opportunities for a variety of ages (School Age and up).
Registration not required
Electronic Devices Donation Drive
October 12th – 19th
The Learning Commons is collecting used cell phones, tablets, and laptops. Devices will be donated to 911 Cellphone Bank, which erases the devices and dispenses them to law enforcement and victim’s agencies to distribute to victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.
No registration required. All ages.
Dental Care Donation Drive
October 12th – 19th
Adult Services is collecting new toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash to support victims of domestic violence and abuse. Supplies will be distributed by ECLI-VIBES.
No registration required. All ages.
Pet Supplies Donation Drive
October 12th – 19th
Adult Services is collecting kitten and cat food, puppy and adult dog food, dog treats, dog beds, dog collars and leashes. Supplies will be donated to Baxter’s Pet Pantry at Long Island Cares.
No registration required. All ages.
Baby & Child Supplies Donation Drive
October 12th – 19th
Children & Family Services is collecting new essential supplies for babies and children. These essentials will be donated to Angels of LI and distributed to families in need.
No registration required. All ages.
The Great Give Back: Butterflies of Hope
October 2nd – 12th (10/2: 6:30-7:30 pm, 10/9: 3:30-4:30 pm, or 10/12: 10:30-11:30 am)
Danielle DiMauro, professor and committee chair at Suffolk County Community College, will provide butterfly cut-outs for you to add positive affirmations for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The butterflies will be donated to community organizations and displayed at SCCC’s Take Back the Night event in April.
Adults. No Registration Required.
The Great Give Back: Crochet Positive Potato
October 10th – 24th (Thursdays, October 10, 17, & 24 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm)
Spread a little positivity while crocheting this cute potato with a message. Aimee Saccio will show you how. Please bring a size F and G crochet hook and worsted weight yarn in any shade of brown. Finished cuties will be donated to a local community organization.
No registration required. Adults.
Kids Coat Drive
September 1st – 30th
Support a family in need by donating a new or gently used coat to the Library. Your donations will be given to Copiague schools.
All Ages ; No registration required.
Halloween Costume Donation
September 3rd – October 30th
A donation bin will be placed inside the library for you to donate new or gently used costumes just in time for Halloween.
No registration needed to donate.
Starting October 7 a meeting room will be available with costumes for the public to browse and take.
Teal Pumpkin Project
October 30th from 4:00PM – 6:00PM
All Ages
Help make Halloween safe for everyone. Drop by any time between 4:00 – 6:00 PM to create a teal pumpkin decoration to display on Halloween letting your neighbors know you are offering allergy-free trinkets or treats this year. You must register for this program.
Please register at https://copiague.librarycalendar.com/event/teal-pumpkin-project-39405 if you are a Copiague patron, please include your barcode for registration.
Toiletry Drive
September 3rd – October 25th
Hygiene products are essential to maintaining good health and can provide relief to individuals and families who are in need. Join us as we celebrate the Great Give Back by helping those families by donating new and unused items such as: dental hygiene products (toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, etc.), sanitization and PPE items (face coverings/masks, sanitation wipes, hand sanitizer, gloves) bathing products (shampoo, conditioner, soap, towels, etc.).
All Ages. No registration needed. Drop off at library.
Repair Cafe
November 2nd from 12:00PM – 4:00PM
Have a small household item in need of repair? Don’t throw it away! Stop down to the Library for our annual Repair Café! Volunteers from Starflower Experience and our own local repairers will try to repair your lamp, radio, clock, small appliances, electronics, jewelry, and clothing.
All Ages ; Please call the Library to register.
Teen The Great Give Back: Halloween Bags for Kids
October 8th from 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Copiague Library teen patrons only (6th grade to 12 grade)
Decorate treat bags for the children who will be attending the Halloween Parade this spooky season.
All volunteers will be eligible for community service hours.
Teen The Great Give Back: Cards for Hospitalized Kids
October 24th from 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Copiague Library teen patrons only (6th grade to 12 grade)
Give back and spread smiles. Create cards that will be sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, which will then distribute to hospitals nationwide.
All volunteers will be eligible for community service hours.
Teen The Great Give Back: Toiletry Bag Assembly and Decorating
October 25th from 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Copiague Library Teen patrons only (6th grade to 12 grade)
Come and decorate a canvas toiletry bag to be donated to an organization in need. You will also fill the bags with some much-needed items.
All volunteers will be eligible for community service hours.
Teen Halloween Costume Set-up
October 3rd from 7:00PM – 8:30PM
Copiague Library teen patrons only (6th grade to 12 grade)
Celebrate the Great Give Back by donating your time taking in and organizing Halloween costumes.
All volunteers will be eligible for community service hours.
Cutchogue-New Suffolk Free Library
Spin Master Toys, Free Recycling Program
October 1st – 25th
One of our projects this year will be the Spin Master Toys Free Recycling Program. Families are to collect Spin Master Plastic Toys such as Air-Hogs, Bakugam, Batman, Disney Junior Firebuds, Dragons Rescue Riders, PAW Patrol, Rubble & Crew and more, and bring them to the Library and place in our collection box. The recycled materials are used to create playground surface covers, outdoor furniture, watering cans, storage containers and bins, just to name a few. This amazing program promotes sustainability in our world.
No registration required.
Community Beach Cleanup
October 19th from 10:00AM – 12:00
Arshamomaque Preserve, 920 Chapel Lane, Greenport, N.Y.
In collaboration with The Group for the East End, adults through children are invited to clean up our precious natural settings within the Town of Southold. Please wear attire for cleanup.
No registration necessary.
Birthday Bags
September 16th – October 11th
The East Hampton Library Children’s Department is asking for donations of birthday-themed items for children of families in need. Items include plates, napkins, plasticware, cups, candles, hats, and party blowers for children ages 1-10. Please drop of items in the Children’s Department from September 16 to October.
No registration
The Great Give Back 2024 – Food Drive
The East Hampton Library is collecting non perishable foods now thru 10/19 for families in need. Please drop off items in the boxes by the reference area. Canned Goods, Dry Goods, Bottled Water, Cereal, etc. We appreciate the kindness and generosity of the community in helping to fill this need.
Paying It Forward with Paws
October 19th from 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Local author Sarah Zagaja will read her heartwarming picture book, Raising Betty. Sarah will also discuss why she became involved with the Guide Dog Foundation and how you too can become involved in volunteering your time. Fenway, a certified therapy dog, will demonstrate tricks and tasks that she learned during her training.
No registration required. All are welcome!
Bandanas for Dogs
October 19th at 2:00PM
Teens (Grades 6-12)
Decorate bandanas for shelter dogs to help them during adoption events.
Elwood Teens only
E-Waste Recycling with EcoTech
October 19th from 10:00AM – 2:00PM
Location: Library parking lot
E-waste collection
Open to everyone
Emma S. Clark Memorial Library
Pet Supplies Drive
October 7th – November 10th
Pet Supplies Drive, October 7 – November 10
We’re collecting new pet supplies (food, blankets, leashes, cleaning supplies, etc.) in the Library lobby to be donated to local organizations that help pets in need. All are welcome to donate (residents or non-residents) during Library hours.
Questions? Email askus@emmaclark.org
Dog or Cat Toy “Take & Make” for Kids
September 16th – October 19th
Dog or Cat Toy “Take & Make”
Kids in Grades 3 -6 can create a dog or cat toy at home while earning 1 hour of community service credit.
Register starting 9/16 at emmaclark.org/programs to reserve your Cat Kit OR Dog Kit. Then come and pick it up! Return it to the Children’s Library by Saturday, October 19, and we’ll donate them to a local animal shelter. One dog or cat kit per child, please. Three Village residents only.
Questions? Email kids@emmaclark.org
Knotted Fleece Blankets for Shelter Pets (“Take & Make”)
October 7th – 11th
Register starting 9/17 at emmaclark.org/programs to reserve your kit. Pick up Monday, October 7 through Friday, October 11. Instructions provided via email. Two hours of community service credit will be earned upon return of the completed project. We’ll donate them to a local animal shelter. For those in Grades 7 – 12. Three Village residents only. Questions? Email teens@emmaclark.org
The Great Giveaway 2024
Friday, October 18 (Weather Permitting)
Location: Outside in the Library’s Circle Driveway
DROP OFF: 9:30 – 11:30 AM
Staff Volunteers will accept items in the Circular Driveway
on the day of the event only.
SHOP for FREE: 12:00 – 3:00 PM
Do you have usable items in your home that are too good to throw away? Perhaps someone in our community could put them to good use. By donating you will be reducing waste, saving precious resources and keeping usable things out of the landfill. In addition, you’ll benefit our community by donating and upcycling. We will be accepting (up to 2 boxes) of your gently used, clean, usable items from the following categories:
• Housewares (pack glassware carefully)
• Toys, Decorations/seasonal items
• Hobby/craft items, Sports equipment
NOTE: Books, DVDs, clothing and shoes will not be accepted. We reserve the right to refuse items that are not usable or practical. Please, no used drink containers or coffee mugs.
Registration is not required. Open to all including out of district residents.
Support Our Furry Friends
October 1st – 31st
Location: The Children’s Room in the Library
Ages: Birth to age 12
Support our Furry Friends at the Little Shelter Animal Rescue & Adoption Center!
We will have a bin in the Children’s Room for your donations of food items, blankets, towels, toys, etc. that we will donate to the shelter. To make a monetary donation please visit www.littleshelter.org/donate
No registration required.
Birthday Celebration in a Bag
October 19th from 1:00PM – 2:00PM
Teens ages 13 – 17
October 19th is the Great Give Back Day! This will be the eighth year that centers on giving back at your public library. At this event we are giving teens the opportunity to brighten a local child’s birthday with essential goodies. Teen volunteers will assemble gift bags containing cake mix, frosting, a card, a gift, and decorations to support families in need within our community. Please register to get involved!
Registration required to in-district residents only.
Every child deserves a birthday celebration. Please donate. Our teen volunteers would like your help in collecting assorted birthday supplies. They will assemble the donated items in “birthday in a bag” gift bags to support families in need within our community. You can help by dropping off any of the following supplies in the collection box in the Teen Room before October 17. Cake mix, frosting, candles, paper birthday party decorations, balloons, party plates, disposable cups, napkins, plastic utensils, and disposable cake pans. Thank you!
The Great Giveback
October 19th from 12:00PM – 4:00PM
Children, Teens, Adults
Help us decorate the tote bags we will use to house full meals for our Thanksgiving donation drive for Long Island Cares. Please bring a food donation to this volunteer event to kick start our donation drive. (up to 4 hours credit, depending on how long you stay)
This event is a drop in event and open to all. However, if you are looking to get community service credit for attending this event, you must have a volunteer account and pre-register in order to receive your volunteer credit. https://hauppaugelibrary.galaxydigital.com/
We will be using paint- please dress accordingly.
Adoptagram
September 28th
Location: Southampton Animal Shelter
Ages 12-18
This is a unique volunteer opportunity for teens to visit the shelter once a month and combine their love of animal welfare and learn social media management techniques. You can take videos and pictures of animals up for adoption, and make social media content to spread awareness of available animals and any upcoming events that relate to the Southampton Animal Shelter’s mission.
Registration and permission slips are required.
Main Street Clean Up with the Bridgehampton Village Improvement Society
October 19th from 10:00AM – 11:00AM
Meeting location is Hampton Library Front Yard
We are partnering up with the BVIS to help clean up Main Street after a very busy summer! Meet us on the library front lawn. Community service hours will be awarded. Gloves and bags will be provided.
Anyone can participate in this program. No registration is required.
Sock Drive
October 1st – 19th
Please drop off new, unused socks at the library. The donation box will be located at the reference desk.
No registration required
Cards for Troops
October 18th from 3:30PM – 4:30PM
Ages 12-18
Make decorative cards full of kindness and respect for our troops all around the world! Community service will be awarded, equal to the time spent in the program.
All are welcome. No registration required.
Huntington Public Library
Mental Health Fair
Saturday, October 19th from 11:00AM – 3:00PM
Main Auditorium
Local organizations including Alzheimer’s Association, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Catholic Charities, Federation of Organizations, National Alliance on Mental Illness, RESPONSE, RISE Life Services, Family Service League, and more will be available to share information and resources about the important work these organizations do to help people combat and manage mental illness.
Relieve Stress with Diamond Painting
Saturday, October 19 from 10:00AM – 11:00AM
Family (Appropriate for Grades 3 up)
Main Meeting Room
The day’s events begin with a relaxing craft using gemstones.
Question, Persuade, Refer and Suicide Prevention
Saturday, October 19 at 3:00 pm
We will wrap up our Mental Health Fair with an impactful QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training session that equips participants with the essential skills to recognize the warning signs of suicide, confidently approach someone in crisis, and guide them to appropriate professional help.
Out of the Darkness Community Walk
Sunday, October 27
Jones Beach – Field 5
8:30 am Registration – Walk begins at 10:00 am
Join the Huntington Public Library Team at the Out of the Darkness Community Walk sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The course is approximately 3 miles, but you do not have to walk the whole way. Donations are not necessary, but welcome. Your presence and support of community and helping people understand the importance of suicide prevention is all that is needed and appreciated. Thank you for joining us! Register for our team here. https://supporting.afsp.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.search&filter=team&searchTerm=huntington+public+library&contextualSearch=1&eventID=9969
There is no registration required to attend any of the events on Saturday, October 19 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm at the Huntington Public Library – 338 Main Street, Huntington, NY 11743. All are welcome.
Registration to be a part of our team at the Out of the Darkness Community Walk sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention can be done on their website: afsp.org – Walk with Us – Register Today. Search for Huntington Public Library to be a part of our team.
The Great Give Back
October 1st – 31st
The Islip Public Library will be collecting items during the month of October to support the food pantry at St. Patrick’s Church in Bay Shore. All items collected will be donated to the Church to help those in need.
Items needed: shampoo, Toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, bar soap, baby Wipes, and
toilet paper.
All items can be dropped off at the Reference Desk.
Totes for a Cause
October 19th from 11:00AM – 1:00PM
Come decorate a reusable tote which will be donated to a local food pantry.
All Ages. No registration. Materials will be handed out on a first come first serve basis
Great Give Back: Bulbapalooza
October 19th from 11:00AM – 2:00PM
Teens, Adults and Families
Help us plant perennial bulbs at the library that we can all enjoy year after year!
Community service letters available upon request.
Register now.
The Great Give Back: No-Sew Fleece Blankets
October 19th from 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Teens (Grades 7-12) & Adults
Help keep someone warm this winter! Teens and adults will make no-sew fleece blankets that we’ll donate to local families in need.
Registration is required. Visit longwoodlibrary.org or call 631-924-6400 to register. You must have a valid Longwood Public Library card.
The Great Give Back: Tote Bags
October 19th from 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Children (Grades 3-6)
Earn one hour of community service while bringing joy to others and having fun! This month we will celebrate The Great Giveback, a community service initiative created by the Suffolk County Public Library Directors Association and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System, by decorating canvas grocery bags which will then be donated to Long Island Cares food pantry to use to distribute groceries.
Registration is required. Please visit longwoodlibrary.org or call 631-924-6400 to register. You must have a valid Longwood Public Library card to sign up.
The Great Give Back: Food Drive
October 1st – 31st
The library is hosting a food drive to support Long Island Cares during the Great Give Back 2024. We are collecting shelf-stable foods, paper goods, personal hygiene products, pet food, birthday party supplies, and baby care products. The ten most needed items are milk (non-refrigerated and boxed), rice, canned vegetables, cooking oil, cereals, oatmeal, peanut butter, jelly, canned meats, and tomato sauce. No glass jars.
Anyone can participate!
Giving Thanks, Giving Back
October 1st – 31st
Throughout October, we’ll be collecting items for a Thanksgiving dinner to be donated to CAST. Please consider contributing by dropping off your donation in the bin located at the circulation desk.
Registration is not required, all are invited to participate.
Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library
Costume Swap Donations
September 23rd – October 18th
All ages.
Help us celebrate the ‘Great Give Back’ by donating costumes for our annual Community Costume Swap. Donate clean, gently used or new costumes and accessories (all sizes welcome). Costume donations are being accepted from September 23rd to October 18th at all open library locations. You are welcome to donate without an obligation to exchange.
No registration necessary
Community Costume Swap
October 19th from 11:00AM – 2:00PM
Mastic Beach Library Branch
Drop by to select a ‘new to you’ costume for this October, available on a first-come, first-served basis. This fun and festive event is open to all ages, so bring the whole family and find the perfect costume for your next celebration. * Costumes are available in ‘as is’ condition, while supplies last *
No registration necessary
Spooky Eyeball Garlands
October 11th from 4:00PM – 5:00PM
Mastic Beach Branch
Teens Grade 6 – 12
Build spooky garlands to be given out at the library’s costume swap. One hour of community service will be given.
Must have active MMSCL library card. Registration required.
Spooky Eyeball Garlands
October 16th from 5:00PM – 6:00PM
Moriches Branch
Teens Grades 6 – 12
Build spooky garlands to be given out at the library’s costume swap. One hour of community service will be given.
Must have active MMSCL library card. Registration required.
The Great Give Back
October 19th from 10:00AM – 1:00PM
MCPL- Centereach
All ages – Kids, Teens and Adults
We’re excited to be apart of Great Give Back and look forward to offering meaningful, service-oriented experiences. Patrons of all ages are invited to participate in projects and a collection drive that give back to our local community. Creative projects, to be donated after the event, include: pocket hugs, mum containers, and warm rice socks for shelter pets. Package seeds for our seed library, plant daffodil bulbs outdoors and bring new gloves and/or hats to be donated to local pantries and shelters.
Drop-in, no registration required, and all are welcome.
The Great Give Back
October 1st – 31st
The Montauk Library will be collecting items for donation all month long to benefit the following local organizations-The Retreat- East Hampton, ARF Hamptons and the Montauk Food Pantry. Please drop donations in the labeled bins inside the Montauk Library.
Items needed but not limited to-
The Retreat-socks, toiletries, black leggings.
ARF Hamptons-pet food, towels, blankets, new dog and cat toys.
Montauk Food Pantry- cereal, oatmeal, non-perishable items.
No registration required.
Sock Donations for Homeless Veterans
October 19th – December 13th
Adults
We will be collecting new (packaged) socks for Veterans through December 13th. Donations will be given to Johnny Sox and distributed throughout New York City.
No registration required.
The Great Give Back-Halloween Costumes & Donations For Our Vets
October 19th from 10:00AM – 4:00PM
Infants through Fifth Grade (Halloween Costumes) & All Ages for Veteran Donations
1) Stop by the Children’s Room and pick out a new/gently used costume for Halloween. Please feel free to do a costume exchange: donate last year’s costume and select this year’s winning outfit/costume! 2) Help Give Back to those who gave the most. Please donate soap, shampoo, toiletries, and paper products. Any donation to help our local Vets is most appreciated. Thank you!
Registration Not Required.
Community Service: The Great Giveback
Grades 6-12
In honor of the Great Giveback, help us create some kits for patrons of Maureen’s Haven to keep warm during the coming winter months. To earn extra community service, bring some items for the NSPL Maureen’s Haven drive to donate. Registration begins 9/20.
Northport-East Northport Public Library
Donations of New Baby Items
October 1st – 31st
As part of this year’s Great Give Back, the Northport-East Northport Public Library is accepting donations of new baby items for Northwell Family Health Center at Huntington during the month of October. All items will be distributed to local families. Diapers (size 1-4), baby wipes, new clothing, bibs, bottles, and toys are welcome. Contributions may be dropped off at either library building October 1 through October 31.
No registration required.
The Great Give Back Volunteers
October 1st – 31st
Teens
Let’s see how many bottles and cans you can recycle! Bring bottles and cans to your local supermarket to recycle. For every 10 bottles or cans you recycle, you will earn one hour of community service credit (maximum of three hours). Email a photo of your recycling receipt(s) to teenvolunteer@nenpl.org by October 31 to receive community service credit.
Registration required; open to NENPL cardholders only
The Great Give Back: Halloween Costume Swap
October 19th from 11:00AM – 2:00PM
Ages 0-18 years
What’s hiding in your closet? Halloween Costume Swap. Donate your new or clean, gently used costumes and accessories at the Main Library or Medford Branch from September 17-October 17. Then join us on Saturday, October 19 from 11 am – 2 pm; Stop by the Main Library during Fall Fest to pick out a new-to-you costume to take home!
Registration is NOT required
Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation Adoption Event
October 12th from 12:00PM – 2:00PM
The Quogue Library invites you to the adoption event of the season as you get to see, pet, and maybe even give a fur-ever home to the animals the Southampton Animal Shelter will be bringing to our Great Give Back celebration! Weather permitting, the event will take place on the front lawn of the Quogue Library. If it rains, the event will be moved into the library.
No registration is required. The event is not restricted to district residents.
Light refreshments will be provided. Live Music by Jimmy Conlin.
Quogue Wildlife Refuge Animals and Craft
October 12th from 12:00PM – 2:00PM
The Quogue Library invites you and your children to see the wild animals, and participate in a fun craft courtesy of the Quogue Wildlife Refuge in celebration of our Great Give Back celebration! Weather permitting, the event will take place on the front lawn of the Quogue Library. If it rains, the event will be moved into the library.
No registration required. Attendance is not restricted to district residents.
Refreshments will be provided. Live music will be provided by special guest, Jimmy Conlin. Tony Valderrama will be in attendance as well, with a special craft for children of all ages.
Coat Drive
September 6th – October 11th
We will be collecting gently used coats for children and adults in need.
All Ages. Registration not required.
Help Us, Help Them, Collection
September 6th – October 11th
We are collecting new travel size hygiene products, easy open (pop-top cans only) non-perishable food items (tuna packets, pop top soup cans, granola bars, etc.) and socks and gloves for adults in need.
All Ages. No registration required.
Blizzard Bags
October 15th from 4:00PM – 5:00PM
Grades 6-12
Sort the donations and create care packages for those in need at Maureen’s Haven. Earn 15 minutes extra of community service for every 4 items donated (maximum of 8 items for an extra ½ hour of community service) new travel size hygiene products, easy open (pop-top cans only) non-perishable food items (tuna packets, pop top soup cans, granola bars, etc.) and socks and gloves for adults in need.
Residents Only
Trick or Treat Tote Bags
October 16th from 5:30PM – 7:00PM
Grades 6-12
Everyone deserves a special bag to go trick-or-treating with! Help us decorate tote bags to donate to children in need. Participants will earn up to 1.5 hours of community service.
District Residents Only
DIY Cat Toys
October 19th from 11:00AM – 12:00PM
Grades 6-12
Create cat toys for our furry friends at a local animal shelter Participants will earn 1 hour of community service.
District Residents Only
The Great Give Back
October 19th from 11:00AM – 4:00PM
Come join us for the annual county-wide Great Give Back! Each October libraries throughout the county reserve a day of opportunity to “give back” to the community. This year, we will be collecting new and gently used coats, hats, mittens and gloves which will be donated to local families in need as well as pet/animal supplies. Drop off items in either the Family or Teen Departments between 11am and 4pm.
No registration is required.
Great Giveback Donation Drive
October 15th – 19th
Bring in nonperishable food items, toiletries, baby supplies, new/unwrapped toys, and pet supplies by the entrance of our Haunted Garden.
No registration
Patrons are asked to bring a donated item to our Annual Haunted Garden event. Last year we had over 14,000 views during the 5 nights. We collected over 1300 pounds of food last year. All items will be donated to local food pantries.
Sayville Library Community Networking Breakfast
October 19th from 10:00AM – 12:00PM
Join us for this fun, casual continental breakfast where you can browse information tables from many local volunteer and service organizations! Looking for a meaningful way to get involved for the benefit of our community? This is the place to start to find the organization or effort that is just the right fit for you! Enjoy a self-serve continental breakfast while you
mingle! You can help our community by bringing a non-perishable food item! Donated food items will help our little free food pantry here at the library! Thanks for your help and support!
No registration required, open to all.
Bicycle Donations
October 19th from 10:00AM – 1:00PM
The Long Island Bicycle Coop gives away about 1100 bikes a year and recycles about 25 tons of bikes. Come down to the Greeley Avenue parking lot between 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and donate your no longer in use bicycles so they can get them to those who can use them.
The bicycles do not have to be in usable condition. **the library cannot accept any donations outside the hours listed for this event. If you cannot make it during those hours, but would like to donate a bike, please visit https://libicyclecoop.org/donate-your-bike/
to arrange a drop off at one of the coop’s donation locations. **
No registration required.
The Great Give Back: Food Drive
October 1st – 31st
The Great Give Back is a countywide service initiative that takes place every October. This year we are collecting canned and preserved foods to donate to the Shelter Island Food Pantry. Goods can be dropped off at the library trailer. Please do not donate expired or perishable items.
All ages. Registration is not required.
The Great Give Back – Cards for Hospitalized Kids
October 19th from 10:00AM – 3:00PM
Location: Commack Building, Kings Park Building, and Nesconset Building
Children up to 12 years old
Design cards for children in the hospital. All cards will be sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, which will distribute them to hospitals nationwide. Stop by and create a smile for a child with us!
No registration necessary.
The Great Give Back-Birthday Bash Box
October 5th from 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Location: Kings Park Building
Grades 6-12
Assemble celebration boxes for local food pantries that will make someone’s birthday a little more special.
Registration required
The Great Give Back-Take and Make No Sew Winter Wear
October 15th – 21st
Grab-and-go
Grades 6-12
Help Celebrate the Great Give Back by creating no sew hats and scarves to donate to children’s organizations in the Smithtown community. Kits will be available beginning Tuesday, October 15 and must be returned to any building by Monday, October 21. Two hours of community service will be provided. Registration required.
The Great Give Back-Give Back and Give Thanks
October 19th from 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Location: Nesconset Building
Grades 6-12
It is time for The Great Give Back. Help local soup kitchens get ready for Thanksgiving when you decorate placemat, centerpieces and roll silverware.
Registration required.
The Great Give Back-Take and Make-Food Pantry Totes
October 19th – 31st
Grab and Go for Adults
Do you want to give back and be crafty at the same time? Take home a bag filled with the supplies needed to create a painted tote bag for those patronizing the Smithtown Food Pantry. Bags can be picked up from any Reference Desk on October 19 and finished totes must be returned by October 31; supplies are available on a first come, first served basis.
No registration
Pet Supply Drive
October 1st – 31st
Please donate pet food and supplies and/or “Pennies for Paws” for the Almost Home Animal Shelter and Save the Animals Rescue Foundation.
All ages. No registration.
South Huntington Public Library
Pet Supplies Drive
October 19th – 31st
As part of Suffolk County Libraries’ Great Give Back, you can help the Children’s Department support Baxter’s Pet Pantry, so all members of every family have enough to eat.
No registration required. All may donate.
LI Cares Food Donation Drive
October 19th – November 1st
The South Huntington Library will be collecting donations of non-perishable food for Long Island Cares. A bin will be in the library lobby. No glass, please.
No registration is required. Anyone may donate.
Create Dog Toys
October 6th from 2:00PM – 4:00PM
Give back to our four-legged friends by braiding recycled t-shirts to create tug toys. This in person program takes place in the YA Library and requires experience with cutting fabric and braiding. One dog toy equals one hour of community service with a maximum of two hours.
No registration required. For South Huntington PL cardholders in grades 6-12 only.
Pink Pumpkins
October 8th from 7:00PM – 8:00PM
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join us as we make pink pumpkins and pink ribbon pins to bring awareness to the disease. One hour of community service.
Registration begins September 27 at 7pm. For South Huntington Public Library cardholders in grades 6-12.
Pet Pantry
October 14th from 4:00PM – 5:00PM
Grades 6-12
Teens will create kits for people and pets who have fallen on hard times. Kits will be filled with some of the most needed items for cats and dogs. Teens will also create special cards with well wishes. These will be donated to people and pets in need.
Registration begins October 4 at 7pm for South Huntington cardholders only.
CD Suncatchers
October 24th from 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Grades 6-12
Create suncatchers out of CDs that will be donated to a senior center.
Registration begins October 18 at 7pm for South Huntington Library cardholders only.
Cards for Vets
October 14th from 4:00PM – 7:00PM
Adults
Patrons may drop into our Tech Center and design a card to thank a veteran. Sessions will be held on Monday, October 14 4-7pm and Saturday, October 18 1-4pm.
No registration required
Adopt a Pet Picture Frames
October 19th from 10:00AM to 12:00PM
All Ages
Create adorable frames to honor your pet or to help a local shelter pet get adopted. Picture frames will be displayed on our ‘Pet Tree’ for all to see!
Drop in – no registration necessary
Pop-Up cards for Nursing Home residents with Chris Vivas
October 19th from 11:00AM – 12:30PM
Ages 7 -17
Join our pop-up workshop for children and teens! Chris Vivas will guide you through each step encouraging creativity and personal expression. Cards will be delivered to a local Nursing Home facility.
Space is limited and registration is required. Go to the events calendar at southoldlibrary.org
Great Give Back of 2024
October 1st – 31st
West Babylon Gives Back All Through October!
We will be running multiple teen volunteer programs including craft buddies, pet adoption posters, harvesting from our garden, a variety of donation drives. We are running a food drive, cat food / supply drive for North Shore Animal League, Long Island Against Domestic Violence, pet food drive. Stars of Hope, our therapy dog team will be here to run a program on the differences between service animals and therapy animals.
The Great Give Back/Trunk or Treat Event
October 19th from 1:00PM – 3:00PM
Location: Westhampton Beach Elementary School
Families with Childrens ages Birth through 5th Grade
THE GREAT GIVEBACK: Let’s help the library help our community. We are seeking local organizations who can use a helping hand. Set up a table or decorate a trunk at our Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, October 19 to share your mission with our community. See our Trunk or Treat box for more information. Please call the library if you are interested.
The Idea Place will collect new mittens, gloves, hats, and socks during our Trunk or Treat event. Donation bins will be available in the library beginning the week of October 6.
TRUNK OR TREAT: Saturday, October 19 from 1:00-3:00pm. Rain date: Saturday, October 26. Cars line up starting at 1:00pm at the Westhampton Beach Elementary School, 379 Mill Road. Treating and the main event is from 2:00-3:00pm. Decorate the trunk of your car for Halloween and bring treats for the community. One adult family member must stay with the car to pass out treats while the rest of the family travels from trunk to trunk gathering goodies with adult supervision. Prizes will be awarded. Participants must stay for the entire event. Registration requested. Please donate new mittens, gloves, hats, and socks or volunteer your local organization to decorate a trunk in helping with the library’s mission to support The Great Giveback. See box for more information.
Please register online or call the library.
Rain Date will be on Saturday, October 26th.
Jean and Hoodie Drive
September 3rd – October 18th
Teen (grades 6-12)
We are collecting new and gently used jeans and hoodies to donate to people in need at Maureen’s Haven Homeless Outreach Center. Donations will be accepted until Friday, October 18.
Donation Organizing: Friday, October 18 from 3:00-4:00pm. Help us organize the donations of jeans and hoodies we received in September and October for one hour of community service. Space is limited, please register.