Despite the threat of rain the day after big thunderstorms hit the area, the free Petting Zoo held at the Northumberland Public Library July 16 drew large crowds of eager kids and their parents.
The event ran from 10 a.m. to noon in the field behind the library, with some exhibits also held in the Meeting Room. The exciting event, held during the library’s Summer Reading Program, “PAWS to Read,” was an unqualified success.
The animals drawing crowds outside included a pair of alpacas, goats, geese, a miniature horse, a turtle, parrot, chickens and other livestock. Inside were earthworms, guinea pigs, rabbits, a Bearded Dragon lizard and more.
According to Jan Bates, the library’s Coordinator of Children’s Programs, an estimated 500 or so kids and adults stopped by. The parking lot quickly filled and attendees parked on the road near the library and wherever else they could find space. Northumberland County Sheriff Charles A. Wilkins and at least one other member of the Sheriff’s Office helped with traffic control on U.S. 360.
The event also filled the library with patrons. According to Library Director Alice Cooper, the number of books checked out was larger than normal and a number of new library cards were issued.
Pictured:
Alpacas Kaline and Maggie drew crowds of admiring children. Photo by Don Hirst
