On Saturday, May 31, the Lumpkin County Library in Dahlonega, Georgia, celebrated a vibrant milestone: five years at its current location. UNG Press was honored to take part in the festivities, joining a lineup of local organizations for a day of family-friendly fun, literary engagement, and community celebration. This landmark event marked not only the beginning of the library’s annual Summer Reading Programming, themed “Color Your World,” but also the launch of a summer fundraising campaign to support vital library services.
The celebration featured a formal morning program, chalk art competitions, story time for children, light refreshments, and an engaging presence from beloved community partners such as the Dahlonega Literary Festival, the Consolidated Gold Mine, and the local fire department. Coordinated seamlessly under the leadership of Bobbi Larson, Director of Economic Development and Community Engagement at the University of North Georgia (UNG), the event brought families, readers, and regional contributors together with the literary and cultural life of Dahlonega.
“It was wonderful to see so many local families at the event,” said Ariana Adams, Assistant Managing Editor and Marketing Director at UNG Press. “Events like these are a reminder that libraries are the heart of our communities. We were grateful to be part of the celebration and support both the Lumpkin County Library and local literacy efforts.”
UNG Press hosted an interactive scavenger hunt for young readers, inviting them to explore a blown-up spread from Georgia ABC’s, a colorful, out-of-print children’s title originally published by the Press. Children were challenged to find three hidden images in the illustration, and those who completed the hunt were rewarded with book-themed stickers and their choice of a complimentary book: either a rare copy of Georgia ABC’s or UNG: The Best Day Ever, a cheerful storybook inspired by the UNG Gainesville campus.
The activity was a hit with families, combining playful discovery with early literacy. Marketing Assistant Nicole Clifton, who helped guide children through the scavenger hunt, noted the curiosity and enthusiasm sparked by the puzzle. “It was amazing to watch the kids light up when they found the hidden images,” she said. “They were so excited to choose a book to take home.”
For UNG Press, participation in the event was more than just a day of fun. It represented a meaningful opportunity to deepen connections with the Dahlonega community and local library system, while promoting the Press’s visibility and mission. As the university press for UNG, the Press supports regional publishing, open educational resources, and public engagement in scholarship and storytelling.
By bringing interactive, book-centered programming to local families, UNG Press reinforced its commitment to fostering a culture of reading and academic connection in Northeast Georgia. Through events like these, the Press is able to translate its publishing work into on-the-ground impact, sharing resources with the public and encouraging future generations of readers.
The Lumpkin County Library, part of the Chestatee Regional Library System, has long been a cornerstone of literacy and lifelong learning in Dahlonega. Its move to a new facility five years ago ushered in expanded programming, community space, and educational opportunities for all ages. As part of the celebration, the Friends of the Lumpkin County Library, a volunteer-run organization that supports library programs and initiatives, helped welcome attendees and share information about how community members can get involved.
UNG Press commends the Friends group and the library staff for their dedication and creativity in serving the public. Events like this one underscore the importance of public libraries as not only centers of knowledge, but also as welcoming, inclusive gathering places for all.
Community events thrive thanks to partnerships and shared investment, and Saturday’s success was made possible by the collaborative efforts of many. From the Dahlonega Literary Festival’s continued commitment to regional authors, to the Consolidated Gold Mine’s historical education exhibits, to the excitement brought by the fire department’s interactive demonstrations, every booth and table added to the festive spirit.
At the heart of it all was Bobbi Larson, whose organizational leadership ensured every aspect of the event ran smoothly. Her coordination behind the scenes reflected both a love of community and a deep understanding of the value these events bring to Dahlonega and the surrounding area. UNG Press extends its sincere thanks to her and all event partners for creating such a joyful and meaningful day.
As summer unfolds, UNG Press looks forward to continuing its outreach and programming, working hand in hand with local educators, librarians, and organizations to amplify stories that matter. Whether through publishing regional voices, supporting open-access learning, or showing up at community milestones, the Press remains committed to serving the North Georgia region and beyond.
For more information about upcoming UNG Press events or to explore our books, visit ung.edu/university-press.
To support the Lumpkin County Library or learn more about the Friends of the Library, visit chestateelibrary.org/lumpkin or stop by the branch to get involved.