Suffolk County Public Libraries Archived Events
Below are libraries from Suffolk County that participated in The Great Give Back 2021! Return to the previous page for information about what libraries will be participating in GGB 2022. Please contact libraries directly for questions regarding offered programming.
Great Give Back Festive Fall Library Material Giveaway
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-3:00 pm
The Library will be hosting a Festive Fall Library Material Giveaway on Oct. 16 from 11 to 3 p.m. for our patrons. To make our giveaway a success we are asking our local teens and tween patrons (Grades 5 – 12) to donate 2 hours of time on this day, for set up, maintenance of collections & clean up.
Volunteer tweens and teens need to be local Amityville district residents to register to help. If a tween or teen wishes to help, please sign up for one of the following time slots.: 10 a.m. -12 p.m., 12 to 2 p.m. or 2 to 4 p.m.
Long Island Cares Food Drive
September 1, 2021-September 1, 2022
Food drives play a large role in helping Long Island’s food insecure individuals and families. Drop off non-perishable, non-expired food items in the Long Island Cares donation box within the Babylon Library’s lobby.
Pet Food Drive for Baxter’s Pet Pantry
September 1, 2021-September 1, 2022
Baxter’s Pet Pantry helps families with not only pet food, but also toys, clothes, and other supplies needed to take care of a pet. Drop off non-perishable, non-expired pet food items, new pet toys, or other supplies to help pets in need. Donation box is located within the Babylon Library’s lobby.
Necessities Drive
October 1-31
Donate items throughout October to be turned into Care Kits to benefit individuals who have fallen on difficult times or are experiencing homelessness. Care Kits will be donated to and distributed by Nourish Babylon.Items to donate:
• Razors for shaving*
• Deodorant*
• Baby wipes*
• Men’s underwear*
• Bandages
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Tissue packages
• Lip balm
• Gloves
• Mints
• Cotton swab packs (travel sized)
• Combs
• Travel-Sized Toiletries
• Feminine hygiene products
• Granola Bars or individually packaged snacks (ex: Goldfish crackers)
*Items Nourish Babylon is currently out of.
Kits will be assembled in November by Teen Volunteers (see below)
Care Kits for Community Service
November 1-5
For teens
Assemble Care Kits full of necessities for individuals who have fallen on difficult times or are experiencing homelessness. Care Kits will be donated to and distributed by Nourish Babylon. Please check the library website or call for registration guidelines. Community service credit will be given.
Registration required. Please check the library’s website (www.babylonlibrary.org) for more information.
Community Service: Teen Tech Help Volunteers
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-4:00 pm
FAre you good at teaching tech (Kindles, Smartphones, email, etc.)? If you are available to help, stop by the Adult Reference desk to sign up for a time slot to help community members with their devices. Community service credit will be awarded! Please sign up at the Reference Desk by Wednesday, October 13th.
Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
2:00-3:00 pm
Participate with many different libraries on October 16th by giving back to the community. We will be preparing hygiene kits for the needy to donate to Saint Patrick’s church.
Registration required. Registration begins September 27.
The Great Giveback
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-4:00 pm
The mission of The Great Giveback is to provide a day of opportunities for patrons of Suffolk County libraries to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. Drop by the Children’s Department between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm to take part in the following community service activities: decorating a reusable grocery bag that will be donated to Island Harvest food bank, making cards for homebound patrons, and decorating kindness rocks to display in our community.
DIY Cat Toys and Welcome Home Kits for Dogs
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-2:00 pm
For teens ages 13-17 years
Earn community service and give back to the community! Stop by the Teen Room anytime between the hours of 11:00 am and 2:00 pm to make some cat toys and welcome home kits to donate to the local animal shelter!
No registration required! Open to Brentwood teens only.
Donate Items for Homeless People
October 1–31, during Library hours
Drop off items such as bandages, wet wipes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, small cans of tuna fish, small packages of crackers, socks, gloves and water bottles. Donations received will be used to make care kits for people who are homeless.
Food, Clothing and Toiletry Drive
St. James Episcopal Church — 260 Beaver Dam Road, Brookhaven
October 16, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
Help us to collect food, clothing and various toiletries. You might even consider holding a mini-drive among your friends and neighbors leading up to our event.
Kits for Homeless People
All welcome
November 2–4, 4:00–7:00 PM, November 5-6, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Visit us anytime during the times listed to help us decorate and assemble toiletry kits that the Suffolk County PD, 5th Precinct COPE unit will distribute to those in need. Please register.
Center Moriches Free Public Library
Toys for Shelter Dogs
Saturday, October 16
9:00 am
Let’s give back to the dogs-in-need in our community. Join us in making a dog toy that is sure to brighten a local shelter dog’s day! All you need is a large t-shirt that you are willing to recycle!
Registration begins on Saturday, October 2nd. This program is for Center Moriches Library cardholders only.
Letter to Seniors
October 1-31
For teens and adults
The Adult and Teen Departments will be collecting letters for seniors all of October. Write, draw, or create letters and pictures that will be delivered to seniors at the Islandia Arbors West nursing home. 1 hour of community service will be provided. No registration required.
Community Blood Drive
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-2:30 pm
For adults and teens 16+
New York Blood Center will be conducting a blood drive at the library, come down to donate! No registration required.
Electronics Recycling
Saturday, October 16
12:00 pm-2:00 pm
In the library parking lot
Reduce dangerous waste- drop off your old computers, batteries, etc. to be recycled.
Canine Companions
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-12:00 pm
For all ages
Canine companions will be at the library with service dogs to explain their mission and discuss volunteer opportunities. No registration required.
Color-A-Smile
October 1-31
Grab-and-go
For all ages
The Children’s Department of the Central Islip Public Library will be collecting drawings to be shared with the organization Color A Smile. Color A Smile is a nonprofit organization that distributes cheerful drawings to Senior Citizens, Our Troops Overseas, and anyone in need of a smile.
Registration is not required. Patrons can pick up coloring pages from us, download them from Color A Smile’s website, or create their own drawings. When drawings are completed, they can drop them off to us at the library by October 31, and we will send them all to Color A Smile in November.
Teen Volunteer Beach Cleanup
Saturday, October 16
3:00-4:30 pm
Take a tour of the Shore Road Sanctuary here in CSH, learning about the biodiversity on the shore line with a member of the North Shore Land Alliance. We will end the program by cleaning up debris along the beach. Teens who attend will receive 1.5 hours of community service credit.
Location: 95 Shore Rd, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724. We will meet at this beach.
Teens below the age of 18 must have parental permission to attend the event. Limited parking on site, drop off and pickup suggested. Please contact pbarell@cshlibrary.org to receive a form. Registration is required.
No-Sew Blankets
Saturday, October 16
2:00-4:00 pm
For children of all ages and their family
Make a no-sew blanket to donate to those in need.
Registration is required.
Kindness Rocks
October 1-16
Grab & Go
For families with children from Birth – Grade 12
The mission of The Great Give Back is to provide a day of opportunities for Commack Public Library patrons to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. We’ve prepared Take & Make Kindness Rock Kits for you to create at home and then return to the Library once completed. The completed Kindness Rocks will be placed in the garden area at the Library.
Registration is limited to Commack Public Library Cardholders.
Sunshine Bags
October 1-16
Grab & Go
Grab & Go
For families with children from Birth – Grade 12
The mission of The Great Give Back is to provide a day of opportunities for Commack Public Library patrons to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. We’ve prepared a list of items for you to choose from to create “Sunshine Bags” which will be donated to The Commack Sharing Table.
Registration is limited to Commack Public Library patrons.
DIY Bird Feeders
October 10-16
Grab & Go
Grab & Go
For families with children from Birth – Grade 12
The mission of The Great Give Back is to provide a day of opportunities for Commack Public Library patrons to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. We’ve prepared Take & Make Toilet Paper Roll Birdfeeder Kits for you to create at home and then place around your neighborhood.
Registration is limited to Commack Public Library patrons.
The Great Giveback: Harvest Centerpieces
Saturday, October 16
11: am-12:00 pm
Get involved and give back. Create seasonal harvest centerpieces to be donated to a local soup kitchen.
Registration required – registration begins September 28.
Collection for Paws of War
Friday, October 15 – Saturday, October 16
9:00 am-5:00 pm
The library will be collecting puppy food, wee-wee pads, dog beds, non-rawhide treats, wet and dry adult dog food, and wet and dry cat food will be accepted for Paws of War.
Coat Drive for the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless
Saturday, October 16
9:00 am-5:00 pm
Drop off your clean, gently-used winter coats for all ages to be donated to the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless.
Animal Shelter Pet Portraits
Saturday, October 16
10:00-11:30 am
For grades 6-12
Under the guidance of Theresa Maritato, teens will paint portraits of an adoptable shelter animal to help to promote each animal’s adoption. Please bring a non-perishable dog/cat item to be donated to the Babylon Animal Shelter.
For district residents only, Registration Required
Scarves, Gloves & Hat Donation for the Family Service League
Saturday, October 16
9:00 am-5:00 pmHelp us give back to the community by stopping by the Children’s Services and dropping off new hats, gloves and scarves. They will be donated to the Family Service League.
The Great Give Back: Halloween Costume Drive
Tuesday, October 26
12:00-2:00 pm
Our Copiague teens will be collecting new or gently used costumes to be distributed just in time for Halloween! Come down to the library to donate your child’s previous Halloween or dance recital costumes. Browse and bring home the perfect costume for your little one or elementary age child. Selection is limited based on what is donated. Donations
will also be accepted on this day.
Children will need to register.
Cutchogue-New Suffolk Free Library
The Great Give Back 2021
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-1:30 pm
At the Hallock State Park Preserve
For families
Join us for a Stunned Turtle Discussion by the Atlantic Marine Conservation Society and a beach clean up at Hallock State Park Preserve. Learn to monitor the local beaches for stunned turtles as well as who to contact to get them the help they need. After, give back to the community by picking up garbage on this beautiful and environmentally important preserve.
Registration is required
GGB: Snowman/Scarecrow Door Knob Hangers
October 16
11:00 am-12:00 pm
For Tweens & Teens (Grades 5-12)
Feel good about giving back as you make this adorable craft. Decorate a cheerful two-sided doorknob hanger to bring some smiles to residents at the San Simeon by the Sound
Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation. Receive 1 hour of community service for this program.
Please register online at www.cutchoguelibrary.org or call the library at 631-734-6360.
Adoption Poster Boards for Shelter Pets
Saturday, October 16
1:30-2:30 pm or
3:00-4:00 pm
Teens will create adoption boards with pictures, stickers, scrapbook paper and other embellishments. Boards will be donated to shelters to help promote the adoption of long-time shelter animals! One hour of community service.
Registration is required.
Yarn Hearts
Thursday, October 14
4:00-5:00 pm
For ages 3+
Come join us in making this craft for our “Heart Exchange” to make the Great Give Back possible. The completed hearts will be strung on a beaded garland that will then be donated to The Retreat. (Their mission is to provide safety, shelter and support for victims of domestic abuse).
Registration required.
The Great Giveback: CATurday
Pickup: Saturday, October 16 ; return kit by Thursday, October 28
Take and Make or in-person between 10-4 the day of The Great Giveback
School age children, K-6
Register for a kit and earn community service. You may either pick the kit up and return to the library, or complete the kit in-person on Saturday, October 16 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Once your kit has been completed and returned to the Children’s Reference Desk, you will earn community service credit. Kits must be returned by Thursday, October 28 to obtain credit; the kits will be donated to a local shelter to help animals in need.
Registration is required; EIPL cardholders only, please.
The Great Giveback: Bandanas for Dogs
Pickup: Saturday, October 16; return kit by Thursday, October 28
Take and Make or in-person between 10-4 the day of The Great Giveback
School age children, K-6
Register for a kit and earn community service. You may either pick the kit up and return to the library, or complete the kit in-person on Saturday, October 16 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Once your kit has been completed and returned to the Children’s Reference Desk, you will earn community service credit. Kits must be returned by Thursday, October 28 to obtain credit; the kits will be donated to a local shelter to help animals in need.
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
Elwood Public Library is partnering with other New York Libraries for a day of service. Please join us in our efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle!
E-waste Recycling with EcoTech 10am – 2pm
Children’s Book Exchange with Teen Volunteers 10am – 2pm
Adult Book Sale All Day
Recycled Crafts for Kids All Day
Recycling Bin Stickers Available at the Circulation Desk
Children’s Book Exchange Volunteer Opportunity
Saturday, October 16
9:30 am-12:00 pm or
12:00-2:30 pm
Earn Community Service hours by volunteering for The Great Giveback! Volunteers will run a childrens’ book exchange and will help with crafts for kids. Please register for one session only to receive 2.5 hours of community service credit.
Emma S. Clark Memorial Library
Pet Food Drive
For everyone
September 27 – October 16th
We’re collecting new, unopened pet food (both canned and dry) in the library lobby. All are welcome to donate (residents or non-residents) during library hours.
Dog Toy Making
Grades 3-6
Create a dog toy at home while earning 1 hour of community service credit. Reserve your kit starting Monday, September 27th at kids.emmaclark.org, then come and pick it up. Return it to the Children’s Library by Saturday, October 16th, and we’ll donate them to a local dog shelter.
Pet Food Delivery
Grades 7-12
We’re looking for a few teen volunteers (grades 7-12) to help us deliver the collected pet food to local animal rescue organizations. Volunteers will earn 3 hours of community service credit. Contact our Teen Services Librarian, Emily Ostrander, at teens@emmaclark.org.
John’s Place
October 16-20
In the Study Rooms at Floyd Memorial Library
For all ages, including adults
Throughout October, Floyd Memorial Library will be collecting NEW items of socks, gloves, hats, undergarments, and T-shirts for John’s Place. John’s Place is a winter homeless shelter and is located at St Agnes Church, Greenport, NY. The mission of John’s Place is to provide a safe, warm, dry place to sleep as well as giving our guests the opportunity to take hot showers, receive nourishing meals, medical assistance and much needed warm winter clothing.
Additionally, between October 16 and October 20, children, teens, and adults are invited to color/design a placemat. There will be 11×17 paper, crayons, markers, and colored pencils to use. Once you have made your placemat, we will laminate it and deliver them to John’s Place. Please come help us help this amazing organization.
No registration required.
Half Hollow Hills Community Library
Tote Bags for Island Harvest
Wednesday, October 20
4:00-5:00 pm or
5:00-6:00 pm
At the Melville branch
Earn 1 hour of community service by decorating tote bags, which will be donated to Island Harvest. Please sign up for one time slot only. For grades 6-12. District Residents Only.
If you have any questions, please call the library at 631-421-4530 or 631-421-4535.
The Great Give Back: Supplies Drive
September 1 – October 15
In partnership with our community members, we are asking for your help in giving to our neighbors in need during this time. From September 1st through October 15th we are collecting items to give to two organizations.
-Unexpired non-perishable food including canned goods of soups and vegetables, pasta, coffee, tea, etc.
-New Toiletries including soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shaving razors, paper towels, etc.
-New hats, mittens, men’s underwear, sweat pants and shirts, and scarves
The Great Give Back: Kit Assembly
Saturday, October 16
12:00 pm-2:00 pm
For teens: 7th-12th grades
We are asking for help from local teens to put kits together from donations received to donate to two local organizations:
Long Island Cares, and Maureen’s Haven Homeless Outreach in Riverhead.
(Community service will be given)
Registration and Hampton Bays library card required
Hampton Library in Bridgehampton
Travel-Size Toiletry Drive
October 1-16
We will be collecting donations of travel-size toiletries such as: baby wipes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, Hand-warmers, Band-aids and hand sanitizer. Teens can earn community service by creating a toiletry bag with at least 5 of the items listed. Contact the Young Adult Department for more information!
Beach Clean-Up
Saturday, October 16
10:00-11:00 am
At Ocean Road Beach
For children & families
Join us at Ocean Road Beach for a morning of community service. We’ll meet you there with bags & gloves, you bring your community spirit.
Marine Conservation & Beach Clean up
Wednesday, October 13
4:00-5:00 pm
Part 1 is virtual, Part 2 is at Centerport Beach
For teens in grades 7 – 12
Do you ever wonder what happens to litter on the beach? Explore the problem of debris in the marine environment in this two part program from Cornell Cooperative Extension. In part one you will complete the virtual component of the program where you will learn about the different types and sources of debris, and how it impacts marine wildlife through ingestion and entanglement. In part two you will take part in an organized beach clean-up at Centerport Beach with an instructor from the Cooperative. Signed permission slips are required. Gloves will be supplied.
Registration begins Friday, October 1st at 10:00 AM. Registration is limited to 18 teens in grades 7 through 12 that reside in the Harborfields School District.
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-2:00 pm
Celebrate this state-wide day of volunteering by creating cards
and letters thanking our local Hauppauge firefighters. Drop in anytime
between the hours of 10am-2pm. All materials will be provided. (Teens in grades 6-12 will receive 1 hour service credit for 4 cards/letters.)
Registration required, and open to all. Choice of time within the four hours is optional.
The Great Give Back 2021
Saturday, October 16
9:00 am-5:00 pm
Stop by Youth & Parent Services to make a dog or cat toy that will be donated to a local
animal shelter.
As part of the Great Give Back, the library has partnered with General Needs Inc., and will be accepting donations of clean, NEWLY packaged undergarments and toiletries for men and women. All garments will be donated to General Needs as an ongoing effort to
provide fresh, clean garments to local veterans. Due to hygiene and safety reasons, only NEW items will be accepted.
We are seeking donations of:
Men’s ∙
T-Shirts, Boxer Briefs/Shorts in Medium, Large & Extra Large
Women’s ∙
Sports Bras, Panties in Small, Medium, Large & Extra large
NEW Socks, Hats, Gloves and Masks are needed for all as well as
newly packaged toiletry items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste,
brushes and combs.
Please drop off your donations in the Red, White and Blue box in the
lobby
No registration required – drop-in program
“No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
1:00-3:00 pm
For teens
The mission of The Great Give Back is to provide a day of opportunities for the patrons of the Public Libraries of New York State to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. Join Ms. B as we decorate donation boxes for local nonprofits. We will be collecting pet supplies for the Islip Animal Shelter, winter clothes for Saint Marks Church, and nonperishable food for Saint Mary’s Church.
Registration required.
DIY Pet Toys for Bideawee
Wednesday, October 13
4:00-5:30 pm
For teens and adults
John Jermain Library is teaming up with Bideawee Animal Shelter to make and donate some easy, DIY dog and cat toys. Stop by the library with an old cotton T-shirt you don’t mind destroying, and we’ll rip, knot, and braid them into toys for the dogs and cats at the shelter. A representative from Bideawee will be on site with information on how you can volunteer with their organization- if we’re lucky, they might bring a pup!
No registration necessary.
Winter Coat Donation Drive
October 1-31
Bring your new or like new/gently used coats to John Jermain Library during the month of October to donate to the Sag Harbor Food Pantry. The library will bring all the winter gear down to the pantry before the cold weather hits. New hats, gloves, and scarves are accepted as well.
Paperback Books for Jails Project
October 1-31
The library is working with the Suffolk County Library System to donate paperback books to Suffolk County Jails. Patrons can bring up to 10 paperback books in like-new condition a day to donate, and we will mail the books in a coordinated mailing. Often asked for books are: Adult & YA fiction; instructional books on any subject; spanish and foreign language books; LGBTQA+ books; history books (especially from diverse cultural viewpoints); blank softcover journals; self-help books; legal books.
Must visit the library in-person to donate. 10 paperback books per day max donation.
Pet Leash & Toy Donation Drive
October 1-31
The library is teaming up with Bideawee shelter to collect leashes and toys for our canine and feline friends! Please bring leashes and toys meant for any size animal to the library, and we will deliver the items to Bideawee.
Donation must be made in-person when visiting the library.
Venetian Shores Community Cleanup
Saturday, October 16
9:30 am-12:00 pm
Venetian Shores Park – Lindenhurst, NY 11757
For all ages
Join us as we partner with Babylon Town to clean Venetian Shores. A light breakfast will be available at 9:30 am before you are sent to designated areas. Vinyl gloves and bags will be provided. The Kiwanis Club of Lindenhurst will be on site, collecting non-perishable food items for our local pantries. Community service credit will be awarded to participating youth upon request.
Registration begins October 1
Bike Repair Workshop
Saturday, October 16
2:00-3:30 pm
Library Backyard
For all ages
Join us in the Backyard to make cards for children in the hospital. All cards will be sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, which will distribute them to hospitals nationwide. Community Service credit will be awarded to participating youth upon request.
No registration required
Green Halloween Costume Swap
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-3:00 pm
Library Backyard
For all ages
Join us in the Backyard to make cards for children in the hospital. All cards will be sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, which will distribute them to hospitals nationwide. Community Service credit will be awarded to participating youth upon request.
Cards for Hospitalized Kids
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-3:00 pm
Library Backyard
For all ages
Join us in the Backyard to make cards for children in the hospital. All cards will be sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, which will distribute them to hospitals nationwide. Community Service credit will be awarded to participating youth upon request.
No registration required
The Great Give Back: Service Stations
Saturday, October 16
2:00-4:00 pm
Join the Teen Services Librarians for an afternoon of community service projects. We will be working on a variety of activities including weaving paper placemats for meal services organizations and creating craft kits that will be donated to local service agencies.
Everyone who participates will receive a certificate for 2 hours of community service.
Registration begins October 2.
Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library
Great Halloween Costume Swap
Costume Donation Drop-off: Friday, 10/1 – Friday, 10/15
Costume Swap: Saturday 10/16, Early Bird entry 10am-12pm, Open to all 12pm-2pm
Swap your Halloween costume for a “new to you” costume at our first Great Halloween Costume Swap! Donate gently used costumes (all sizes welcome) to get a ticket to swap for a “new” costume during early bird swapping hours on 10/16. Don’t need a costume? You’re welcome to donate without an obligation to exchange. Don’t have a costume to swap? Come in on 10/16 from 12pm-2pm to pick one out. (While supplies last.)
All are welcome to attend. Teens in grades 9-12 from our library district may volunteer to help staff the event.
Great Give Back Food Drive
October 1-30
Donate non-expired, nonperishable food to replenish a local food pantry. Collection bins are located throughout the library for donations any time during library hours.
The Great Give Back Community Service Program: Post Cards for Veterans: A Take & Make Program
Saturday, October 16
1:00-2:00 pm
For Kindergarten through 12th gradeFor families with children in K – 12th grade. The Great Give Back is a day of community service throughout libraries in New York State. Kits will include materials to create postcards that will be returned to the library and sent to veterans in the community. A certificate of community service will be emailed when postcards are returned. The first 50 registrants will be contacted to arrange a curbside pickup of needed supplies and instructions. Then tune into mcpl.tv to view the instructional video.
Registration is required and is only open to Middle Country Public Library Patrons
The Great Give Back Community Service Program: Sock Toys for Shelter Animals: A Take & Make Program
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-12:00 pm
For teens in 6th – 12th grade. The Great Give Back is a day of community service throughout libraries in New York State. Kits will include materials to make a sock toy that will be donated to local animal shelters. A certificate of community service will be emailed when the shelter toy is returned to the library. The first 50 registrants will be contacted to arrange a curbside pick up to receive a kit containing the needed supplies and instructions. Then tune into mcpl.tv to view the video instructions.
Registration is required and only open to Middle Country Library Patrons
Donation Drive
October 1-31
The Montauk Library will be collecting donations for Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, The Retreat and the Montauk Food Pantry. Please click here for a list of acceptable items.
Storytime with a Teen
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-12:00 pm
Young Adults in grades 6-12
Read to a group of children then help them with a craft. Pick up your books in advance so you can practice reading the story. There will be a brief meeting to prepare for this program on Friday, October 15 at 4:00PM. You must attend the meeting on Friday to participate.
Please register beginning Wednesday, September 1. North Babylon School District residents only. Grades 6-12.
Animal Shelter Donation Box
Setpember 1 – October16
Help support the Babylon Animal Shelter by donating supplies. Items needed include pet food, Kong toys, KMR Kitten Formula, Miracle Nipples, litter box scoopers. Please check with the library for the most up to date supply lists.
No registration. Bring your items to the library beginning Wednesday, September 1. A collection box will be located inside the front entrance.
Johnny Sox Sock Drive
September 1 – October 16
Help homeless veterans by donating new socks to be distributed locally. Socks can be dropped off near the front entrance inside the library.
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
9:00 am-4:00 pm
Children in grades K-5
Get inspired with a packet of fun projects–big and small, to help kids make meaningful contributions to our community.Help brighten a senior’s day by designing/decorating greeting cards to be donated to a local adult/nursing center! All supplies needed will be available. Help support the Babylon Animal Shelter by donating pet food for dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs! Toys, towels, and small blankets will be greatly appreciated as well.
No registration required
Northport-East Northport Public Library
The Great Give Back Idea Kit
October 1-23
Grab-and-go kit
For children in grades K-5
Get inspired with a packet of fun projects–big and small, to help kids make meaningful contributions to our community.
No registration required
Be Nice to Your Neighbor—Storytime in the Courtyard
Saturday, October 16
10:30-11:00 am
In the Library Courtyard
For children birth-5, with parents and siblings
Enjoy inspiring stories of kindness and community living surrounded by the autumnal colors of the Library Courtyard trees.
Library district patrons only; registration required
No Sew Blankets for Shelter Animals in the Town of Huntington
November 1-30
For students in grades 6-12
Teens will make fleece no sew blankets to be donated to local animal shelter for the animals waiting to find their furr-ever home.
Registration is required and is limited to district residents.
Food Pantry Table
September 18 – October 16
Drop off non-perishable food, baby care, and baby products in the Children’s Department
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
All day
In honor of The Great Give Back, the LJFL will join libraries all over New York State on a day centered on giving back to the community. Stop by the library to donate your canned, non-perishable food items!
Coat Drive
October 1-29
We will be collecting gently used coats for children and adults in need.
Food Drive
The Riverhead Free Library is serving as a year-long drip site for a food drive hosted by Long Island Cares. Please consider donating non-perishable food items to help families in need.
DIY Tote Bags
Thursday, October 14
4:00-5:00 pm
Join us in decorating tote bags that we will fill with hygiene products, non-perishable food items, and socks for those in need. Teens will earn 1 hour of community service. Earn an extra hour of community service by donating the items listed above.
Riverhead Beach Cleanup
Saturday, October 16
12:00-3:00 pm
For all ages
At Iron Pier Beach, 320 Pier Avenue, Riverhead, NY 11901
Iron Pier Beach, 320 Pier Avenue, Riverhead NY 11901
Join us for a community beach clean-up! Be rewarded for fun & service with a light breakfast. All cleaning materials and supplies will be provided, but you must provide your own transportation. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, please call the Children’s Reference Desk at
631-727-3228 ext. 120
Great Giveback-Food Drive
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-4:00 pm
In conjunction with county-wide libraries, the Rogers Memorial Library will be celebrating the Great Giveback by hosting a food drive on October 16, 2021 from 10am-4pm. Donations can be dropped at the library and will go directly to the food pantry at the Heart of the Hamptons.
Donations limited to food and toiletries. No appliances, furniture or clothing please. Reusable bags also welcome!
On Your Own Community Cleanup
October 1-31
Commit to keeping your local neighborhood clean. Email a picture of your efforts to outreach@sachemlibrary.org.
Food, Toy and Pet Supplies Drive
Saturday, October 16
9:30 am-4:00 pm
Drop off nonperishables, toiletries, new/unwrapped toys, and pet supplies at the library.
Sachem Teen Volunteers: Great Give Back Food Drive Helpers (in person)
Saturday, October 16
9:30 am-1:30 pm
For grades 6-12
Assist in collecting and sorting food donations that will be distributed to the local community.
This program is for Sachem cardholders only.
Youth in need of community service hours should contact Teen Services.
Food Drive
September 1 – October 16
The library is collecting non-perishable food items to donate to the Sayville Food Pantry. Drop off some donations to help people experiencing need in our community!
Community Breakfast
Saturday, October 16
10:00-11:00 am
Stop in the Library for coffee and a continental breakfast and chat with some of the local civic and charitable organizations that make Sayville and West Sayville better for all of us. Learn what these organizations do for our community and find out details on how you can get involved!
Thank You, First Responders!
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-12:00 pm
Volunteers from the Sayville and West Sayville Fire Departments and members of Community Ambulance Company will be here with their rescue vehicles for you to explore. Come inside the Children’s Room and add your messages of gratitude to banners that will be donated to each organization to hang proudly in
their headquarters!
Juggling for Jude
Saturday, October 16
12:00-1:00 pm
Calling all Teens!!! Meet in Teen Central for snacks and a community service event. Hollis Belger will chat with us, via Zoom, to talk about how she has turned her soccer passion into a much bigger purpose: helping the children at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She has already raised more than $500,000! Bring a soccer ball and Hollis will give us a soccer juggling lesson!
Wildlife Rehabilitation with the STAR Foundation
Saturday, October 16
2:00-3:30 pm
Representatives from the STAR Foundation animal rescue will be here to introduce you to some of their temporary animal residents and to tell you how you can help to prevent wildlife injury and help injured animals!
The Great Giveback: Beach Cleanup
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am
At Menhaden Lane Beach
The Great Give back is a countywide service initiative that takes place every October. For this year’s event, we will meet at Menhaden Lane Beach for a socially distanced beach cleanup! Register each member of your family for a morning of giving back! We’ll supply garbage bags. Please bring your own masks and gloves.
Visit our website to register for this program.
Patchwork Mural
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-4:00 pm
For families
Channel your inner artists to design a colorful patchwork mural for the Smithtown Senior Center! Everything you need to create your stellar piece will be provided– just drop in at the Smithtown building between 10-4pm!
No registration required
Color for Kindness
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-4:00 pm
For children under age 12
Stop by the Children’s Room in the Kings Park Building to color bookmarks and cards that will be sent to homebound library patrons and local nursing homes. You can also print your own bookmarks and cards from https://bit.ly/GGBColor and return them to the Kings Park Building by Saturday, October 23.
No registration required.
The Great Give Back-Community Clean Up
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-12:00 pm
For all ages
The Great Give Back is a community service initiative created by the Suffolk County Public Library Directors Association and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System to provide a day of opportunities for the patrons of Long Island libraries to participate in meaningful, service-oriented experiences. Celebrate this county-wide day of volunteering by joining the Library for a community clean up at a local location. Registration required. Gloves and garbage bags will be provided. Teens will receive community service for the event. Teens that participate without an adult will need a signed permission slip. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. This event will be rain or shine.
Registration is required.
Baby Item Collection
October 1-31
The South Country Library will be collecting baby items to be donated to Lighthouse Mission to help new moms in need. Items needed include new unopened diapers and wipes, new unexpired baby food and formula, baby blankets, clothing, socks, hats
Pennies for Pets
October 1-31
The South Country Library will be collecting loose change a the Patron Services Desk. All money generously donated will be given to Almost Home Animal Rescue.
Color-a-Smile
Saturday, October 16
10:00 am-4:00 pm
For all ages
Stop by the South Country Library and take a moment to color a cheerful drawing for those in need of a smile.
South Huntington Public Library
Long Island Cares Food Drive
October 16-30
The Library will be sponsoring a food drive to collect non-perishable food items for the Long Island Cares Food Bank. Boxes for donated items will be in our lobby from Oct. 16-30 (No glass containers, please).
Pet Food Drive
October 16-30
Since some pet owners may be in need of assistance for their furry friends, the Youth Services Department is sponsoring a pet food drive for Long Island Cares. Items accepted include unopened dry or canned dog or cat food; pet treats and new toys; food for other pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, reptiles and birds, and kitty litter. Boxes for these donated items will be in our Children’s Library from Oct. 16-30
Help Save the Sea Turtle and other Marine life
Saturday, October 16
12:00-4:00 pm
For all ages
~Activities for children: sea turtle bracelet making, paper plate sea turtle with “how to rescue a ‘cold stun’ turtle on back,
~Art display of sea turtles by teens and adults,
~donation box for NY Marine Rescue Center, QR code for donation list and hard copies of lists available.
~Patrons will receive a turtle shaped sugar cookie when they donate!
~Gloves and bags also available for patrons to take and do beach clean up (on their own time) while they patrol for ‘cold stun’ turtles.
~There will be an information table on sea turtles and a rep from NYMRC to answer questions.
No registration necessary. This is a drop in program with no limit on attendance
The Great Give Back
Saturday, October 16
11:00 am-2:00 pm
For all ages and families
Join us for a day of giving! Stop by the library to complete different crafts and community service projects. Teens who sign in and complete projects will receive community service credit.
Collecting Toiletries
October 1-31
This year, we will be collecting toiletries for local food pantries in the area who give out to those in need. If you would like to give, there will be a box in our lobby and we will collect items such as toilet paper, deodorant, toothpaste, soap, and other hygienic pieces.
Welcome Plaque
Saturday, October 16
2:00-3:00 pm
For teens
In participation with New York’s Great Give Back program, join us at the library to make a welcome sign which will be donated to Habitat for Humanity, an organization that provides homes to Long Island families.
West Islip residents only. Registration is required.