Aiken, SC, October 1, 2025
News Summary
The Aiken County Public Library is set to offer an array of activities throughout October despite facing funding challenges due to federal budget cuts. Highlights include French classes, literary discussions, and creative sessions like Coloring for Grownups. Special events include a Tim Burton Movie Marathon and Trick-or-Treating for children. The library seeks donations to support its programs and continues to provide essential resources to the community.
Aiken County Public Library Offers October Programming Amid Funding Challenges
The Aiken County Public Library, located at 314 Chesterfield St. S.W., is set to provide a wide array of exciting events and programming throughout October 2025, despite facing funding challenges due to federal budget cuts to the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). This programming is vital in continuing to support public humanities initiatives, and the library is actively seeking donations of specific books to help mitigate budget gaps.
Among the highlights this month, the library will host French Classes every Friday at 2 p.m., sponsored by Alliance Française, running through May with no registration required, providing an opportunity for community members to enhance their language skills. On October 2, the library will hold Coloring for Grownups sessions from 2-4 p.m., encouraging participants to bring their own colored pencils and felt pens for a creative escape. Additionally, on the same day, the program The Art of the Short Story will explore notable works including “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson and “A Good Man is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor, catering to individuals aged 15 and older from 6-7:30 p.m.
The library also presents the Let’s Talk About It discussion series featuring the theme “Good Book/Bad Movie,” with a screening of “The Great Gatsby” scheduled for October 14. The discussion will be led by Dr. Andrew Geyer. To foster local creativity, the Art of Words Poets’ Open Mic is scheduled for October 16 from 5:30 to 7:45 p.m., with the theme “Horrors,” featuring local poet Jezebel Anat.
Another highlight of October includes the Book Club meeting on October 21, discussing “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise To Fame” by Olivia Ford, which requires sign-up for participation. The library will also present popular films including “Karate Kid: Legends” on October 18 and “Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning” on October 25, both rated PG-13.
The annual Tim Burton Movie Marathon will take place on October 31, showcasing several of his iconic films. Attendees are encouraged to bring snacks and cushions for their comfort while enjoying the screenings. In addition, children and families can participate in Trick-or-Treating at the library beginning at 10:30 a.m. on the same day, so participants should remember to bring a bag.
The programming also includes Gaming Time from noon to 5 p.m. on October 2 (reservation required), an ornament decorating craft session on October 7 at 10:30 a.m. (registration needed), as well as Storytime events for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers on October 15 and 22. A Play & Learn program for children ages 0 to 5 will also be held on Wednesdays throughout the month.
To cater to science-inclined youth, the Stormwater STEM Club for children in grades K-5 will convene on October 30 at 4 p.m., also requiring registration. On October 25, the library will host the Homegrown Goodies Share event, though this is not officially an Aiken Library event.
The Aiken County Public Library hours are Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. It remains closed on Sundays. In addition to these events, the library offers resources such as Ancestry Library Edition and Physical Activity Kits.
FAQ
What is the location of the Aiken County Public Library?
The Aiken County Public Library is located at 314 Chesterfield St. S.W.
What are the library’s operating hours?
Aiken County Public Library operating hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and closed on Sundays.
What major events are happening at the library in October?
Key events at the Aiken County Public Library in October include French Classes, the Art of the Short Story program, Let’s Talk About It film discussion series, Art of Words Poets’ Open Mic, Book Club, and a Tim Burton Movie Marathon.
Is there a special event for children on October 31?
Yes, the library will host a Trick-or-Treating event beginning at 10:30 a.m. on October 31.
How can individuals contribute to the library’s funding?
The library is actively seeking donations of specific books to help mitigate funding gaps due to federal budget cuts.
Key Features of October Events at Aiken County Public Library
| Event | Date | Time | Registration Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Classes | Fridays | 2 p.m. | No |
| Coloring for Grownups | October 2 | 2-4 p.m. | No |
| The Art of the Short Story | October 2 | 6-7:30 p.m. | No |
| Let’s Talk About It | October 14 | Evening | No |
| Art of Words Poets’ Open Mic | October 16 | 5:30-7:45 p.m. | No |
| Book Club | October 21 | 2:30 p.m. | Yes |
| Tim Burton Movie Marathon | October 31 | Evening | No |
| Trick-or-Treating | October 31 | 10:30 a.m. | No |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken County Community Events and Updates
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Chick-fil-A Leader Academy Donates Books to Aiken County Schools
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Aiken Community Events Scheduled for Fall
Aiken County Hosts Weekend Community Events
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Additional Resources
- Aiken Standard: Aiken Library Events October
- Wikipedia: Public Library
- Augusta Press: Aiken County Public Library Book Donations
- Google Search: Aiken County Public Library
- WRDW: Library’s Clothing Drive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Library
- Aiken Standard: Art Authors at Aiken Library
- Google News: Aiken County Public Library Events
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
