MIFFLINTOWN — The quietest building in Mifflintown is about to get loud in the best possible way. On April 17 and 18, the Juniata County Library, located at 498 Jefferson St., will trade its shushing for cheering as bookshelves become fairways, reading nooks turn into hazards and the whole place transforms into the most delightfully unexpected miniature golf course in the Juniata River Valley.

A weekend that reimagines the library

For two days, the library will look nothing like its usual self. Instead of quiet study and soft page-turning, visitors will find a full indoor mini golf course weaving through the stacks. Shelves become obstacles, displays become themed challenges and familiar corners take on new life as part of a playful, creative layout designed to surprise even the most loyal patrons.

The transformation is more than a novelty. It’s a celebration of what a modern library can be: a community hub, a gathering place and a space where imagination and fun are just as welcome as research and reading.

Friday night: Adults take the course

The event, sponsored by the Friends of the Juniata County Library, kicks off Friday, April 17, with two adults-only sessions at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. These evening rounds offer a rare chance for grown-ups to enjoy the library in a relaxed, social setting. For $25 per person, participants can play the full course while enjoying food from Harshbarger’s Sub ‘n Malt and beer and wine courtesy of Juniata Valley Winery.

The atmosphere is designed to feel more like a night out than a fundraiser. It’s a chance to unwind, laugh and experience the library in a way that’s completely different from the usual routine. Whether players come in groups or pairs, the evening promises a mix of friendly competition and lighthearted fun.

Saturday morning: Family fun for all ages

Saturday, April 18, shifts the tone to pure family entertainment. Beginning at 10 a.m., families can play the entire course for just $5 per foursome. The price is intentionally low to make the event accessible to as many households as possible, and snacks provided by Weis Markets add to the festive feel.

The family session is designed with kids in mind — easygoing, silly and full of moments that will have parents and children laughing together. Whether a family includes seasoned mini golfers or first-timers, the course is built to be welcoming and fun for everyone.

Preview of local art and auction items

While the mini golf course is the main attraction, the library is also using the weekend to preview items that will appear in its online auction later in April. Visitors will be able to see:

Pottery by Doug Aurand

Jewelry by Emily Kirk

A watercolor by Emily Kirk

Additional handcrafted pieces from local artists

Seeing these items in person gives patrons a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind them and builds excitement for the upcoming auction.

Why this event matters

Events like this do more than raise money — they strengthen the library’s role as a cornerstone of community life. In a rural county, opportunities for affordable, family-friendly entertainment can be limited.

By hosting creative events like indoor mini golf, the library offers something fresh and memorable while supporting its mission.

Funds raised help sustain programs, technology, materials and services that benefit residents of all ages. Every putt, every laugh and every ticket sold contributes to the library’s ability to serve the community year-round.

Powered by local partnerships

The weekend is made possible through collaboration with local businesses. Harshbarger’s Sub ‘n Malt, Juniata Valley Winery and Weis Markets are all contributing to the event, demonstrating how community institutions and local businesses can work together to create something special.

These partnerships help keep costs low for families and add a festive touch to the adult sessions, making the event feel both polished and deeply rooted in the community.

Registration details

Because the course winds through the library’s interior, space is limited. Pre-registration is encouraged, and payment — cash, check or card — is required at the time of sign-up at the circulation desk.

With excitement already building, the library expects both days to fill quickly.

Library weekend like no other

For one weekend in April, the Juniata County Library will become a place where bookshelves turn into fairways, reading rooms become putting greens and the community gathers not just to read, but to play. It’s a reminder that libraries are living, evolving spaces–shaped by the people who use them and strengthened by the events that bring them together.