Kutztown Community Library invites the community to enjoy the sights, sounds and scents of fall during the library’s Country Cruise fundraiser, a self-guided driving tour through picturesque Albany and Greenwich townships.
“I think a lot of people have felt confined to their homes and this is a way to get out and enjoy yourself,” said Kutztown Community Library Director Janet Yost.
Organized by the Kutztown Community Library Board and the fundraising committee, the Country Cruise serves as a fundraiser for the library.
“It gives (patrons) something interesting and educational to do while supporting the library,” said Jacqueline Sharayko, assistant director, Kutztown Community Library.
The proceeds from the Country Cruise will help support programs at the library.
“During other years, the library had a holiday house tour. We wanted to be able to have a fundraiser where patrons could social distance but also have fun and support the library,” said Sharayko. “You can gather your friends, and have an enjoyable day learning about the history and fun features of the area.”
Held on Oct. 2, the Country Cruise starts at the Library at 70 Bieber Alley in Kutztown and the route meanders through the scenic countryside. The tour covers 30 miles with about an hour drive, plus time to stop.
“Every stop on the tour is located in the library’s service area. This provides an opportunity to be introduced to our local treasures while promoting nearby businesses,” said Sharayko.
The route features 18 locations including covered bridges, historic churches and stops at 10 local businesses including a winery, artist’s gallery and several places that sell food and beverages. Handcrafted traditional ice creams, aged cheeses and homemade deli sandwiches are just a few of the offerings.
“Personally, I like all the fun places to eat and get ice cream,” said Yost. “Especially interesting on this tour is the Albany Arts Fest with several phenomenal artists.”
The tour includes a stop at the Albany Township Historical Society building for the Albany Arts Festival which features nine Berks County area artisans.
“The Kutztown Community Library Board was very involved and determined to make sure that the Country Cruise is a success for the library,” said Sharayko. “Board members took photos of the sites (Dunkel’s Church in Greenwich, WK&S Railroad in Kempton and Trexler Bridge in Albany Township). One board member drove the route four times to ensure that the driving instructions were correct. Due to their dedication, our guidebook is informative and easy to follow.”
Tickets for the Country Cruise are $25 per car. The price includes a guidebook as well as three free raffle tickets to win a raffle filled with items donated from the sites on the Cruise. Tickets can be purchased at the library until 2 p.m. on the day of the event. Also, tickets will be available at the Albany Area Historical Society building on the day of the event.
The library instructs participants to follow site guidelines about masking. Complimentary masks are available at the library.
The Library is located at 70 Bieber Alley in Kutztown and can be reached at 610-683-5820.
Source: Berkshire mont
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