MIFFLINTOWN — Libraries have proven to be an invaluable resource for developing literacy skills across all ages and demographics.

The Juniata Valley Bank wants to make sure the Juniata County Library, located at 498 Jefferson St. in Mifflintown, continues to play a vital role in the community for the foreseeable future.

That’s why JVB has organized the inaugural Bookin’ It 5K Run/Walk from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20 in Mifflintown. This fundraising event features a five-kilometer run and three-kilometer walk, welcoming participants of all ages and fitness levels to support the library.

The race, to be held rain or shine, begins in front of Heister House and follows old Route 22 to the Old Canal House and loops back to Heister House.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the run and walk starting at 9 a.m. Early bird registration is $25 per runner or walker, with an early bird deadline of Wednesday, Aug. 27. Early registration also guarantees each participant receives a t-shirt on the day of the event.

After Aug. 27, the fee will be $30 per participant; registration remains open through race day.

Awards will be handed out following the race to the overall male and female winners as well as the top three male and female place finishers in a variety of age groups.

This community-focused event will raise funds to enhance library resources and programs that serve Juniata County, explained Vince Giordano, director of the Juniata County Library.

“The proceeds of the Bookin’ It 5K go towards the Juniata County Library, a community anchor that provides a unique set of resources: location, space, print and digital information and dedicated and knowledgeable staff,” Giordano said.

The library, with 40,805 patron visits in 2024, issued 482 new library cards in 2024 and added nearly 3,000 new items to the library’s collection.

“It (the library) is open to everyone, regardless of income, background or age,” Giordano added. “The Juniata County Library has a special mission to young children and their caregivers to encourage a love of reading and learning. The Bookin’ It 5K helps make that possible in Juniata County.”

Earlier this year, JVB established a “Care Committee,” composed of a group of employees who plan and organize events for a worthy cause in the community, said Lisa M. Snyder, senior vice president and credit administration manager.

When discussing potential recipients, the library popped up several times, due to funding cuts from other sources. The idea for a 5K run was born, with the Juniata Valley Striders assisting with race logistics.

“The response has been good so far by both JVB employees and the general public,” Snyder explained. “We’ve also solicited sponsorships from local businesses to help defray the costs of the event.

“Response to this endeavor has been great,” Snyder added. “The time and dedication provided by the individual members of the Care Committee has been remarkable.”

Snyder believes the outpouring of support is due in large part to the fact that the library and the services it provides are so important to the community.

“Passport services, Children and Youth Services, Story Time, e-books, and mobile hotspots are just a few of the services offered by the library,” she explained. “Everyone wants to ensure that those services can continue, uninterrupted.”

Snyder said a number of JVB employees have committed to run or walk with colleagues as well as their families and friends.

“Everyone is welcome,” she said. “We also have a number of employees who will be volunteering the day of the event to ensure that the race runs smoothly.”

Snyder said JVB is excited to host this event to celebrate the Juniata County Library. “We look forward to a great turnout for a very worthy cause,” she added. “Everyone is welcome to participate.”

Registration forms are available at the JVB office or Juniata County Library.

For more information about the Bookin’ It 5K, visit the JVB page on Facebook.