An Elegant Evening Honoring 100 Years of Service to the Community
The Talbot County Free Library is excited to announce its Centennial Celebration, a signature event commemorating 100 years of literacy, learning, and community service. The reception will take place on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Easton Library Branch, promising an unforgettable evening filled with jazz-age charm and lively merrymaking.
Inspired by the Library’s roots in the 1920s, this cocktail-style event will feature live jazz music by the Julie Parsons Duo, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, signature cocktails crafted by Lyon Rum in the spirit of a 1920s speakeasy, and an exclusive VIP reception for sponsors. Guests are encouraged to wear cocktail attire, with an invitation to add a touch of 1920s flair.
In addition to the festivities, the evening will feature appearances by local authors including Carole Boston Weatherford, author of the 2025 One Maryland One Book selection, Kin: Rooted in Hope; and a raffle offering local experiences and premium gift certificates.
“The Library is such a special place to so many in our community and we want to celebrate our milestone birthday with all of our patrons, staff, volunteers, friends, and supporters” said Dana Newman, Library Director. “Throughout its history, the Talbot County Free Library has been an important part of the civic, literary, and cultural life of the County. The library thrives because of what it means to its community.”
Tickets for the event start at $100, with VIP and sponsorship packages offering a variety of benefits, including a VIP reception. All proceeds will support the Library’s innovative programs, essential services, and welcoming spaces that inspire learning, creativity, and connection for all ages.
The Talbot County Free Library first opened to the public on October 15, 1925, in a small, rented space with just 800 books on the shelves. Many donors in the community along with Talbot County and the Town of Easton provided funding and gifts to ensure the library continued to flourish and serve residents and visitors alike. Today, more than 175,000 people a year access the Library’s collections, services, and programs. In 2024 alone, the Library offered more than 600 programs and classes to over 27,000 children and adults. Additionally, TCFL provides public access to computers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a wealth of 24/7 e-resources, ensuring the community continues to thrive in a digital world.
“While the library has evolved with changes in how it is used, it still functions and fulfills the same needs we had 100 years ago, for community, connection and curiosity,” said Newman. “The Library invites you to continue to turn pages with us and make memories for the next 100 years.”
The Centennial Celebration is one of many special events hosted throughout 2025 and the Library invites the community to explore additional Centennial events at www.tcfl.org/CentennialEvents/.
To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit www.tcfl.org/CentennialTicketsSponsorships/ or call (410) 822-1626.
About the Talbot County Free Library
The Talbot County Free Library (TCFL) provides free access to information, technology, and educational resources to all residents of Talbot County, MD. The library strives to empower, inspire, and enrich the community by fostering lifelong learning and literacy. With branches in Easton and St. Michaels, TCFL offers a range of programs and services for all ages. Learn more at www.tcfl.org.
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