When Lauralee Bliss’ shared her experiences of hiking the Appalachian Trail at last year’s presentation at the Coudersport Public Library on Park Avenue, the program was so popular that the community wanted a repeat performance this year.
Bliss, who uses the trail name “Blissful,” is a Shenandoah National Park ridgerunner who will present free programs at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday for children and adults, respectively.
Bliss has hiked the trail from Maine to Georgia, twice. The trail, approximately 2,200 miles in length, is the longest hiking-only trail in the world.
“We had quite a few people (last year), I think about 35 which is really good for a library program,” said Teri McDowell, library director. “It was quite a cross-section of people (in attendance), from people interested in hiking it themselves to people who are just armchair travelers.”
McDowell said she was able to invite Bliss back again thanks to state-funded programming grants provided through the Potter County commissioners.
“This is entirely voluntary by the commissioners, this is above and beyond the normal allocation they give,” she said of $2,000 grant. “These speakers do cost money, so we’re able to pay them to come in for this caliber of program.”
Even with the funding, the library operates on a shoestring budget and welcomes donations, she said, noting a collection jar will be set up at the event.
McDowell said the program for children at 11 a.m. is titled “An Appalachian Trail Adventure for Kids,” and will include an activity.
“There will be some talking, but some hands-on stuff as well,” McDowell explained.
The presentation will explore critters found along the trail, such as bears, snakes and everything in between. Plants, trees and “cool views” seen on the trail will also be discussed. Bliss will also show the youngsters funny hiking photos, share her experiences on cooking over a tiny stove with a pot — and sleeping in the woods.
Kids will have the opportunity to create their own “trail name” through drawings and words and will receive a carabiner, or coupling link used by rock climbers, to hook on their day pack or belt loop.
“This program is an opportunity for children to learn how to interact with nature in a fun and safe manner,” McDowell added.
The program for teens and adults at 1 p.m. will explore the 220-mile Pennsylvania segment of the trail, McDowell continued. The Pennsylvania portion of the trail covers the area from Pen Mar Park to Delaware Water Gap.
“Bliss will discuss her experiences on the trail and how to safely enjoy it in all seasons,” McDowell said.
The librarian said she believes it is important to include an adult presentation as this group isn’t catered to by libraries regularly.
“A lot of libraries don’t do as much adult programming,” she noted. “We feel the adult programming is as important as the kids’ programs. We really believe in lifelong learning.”
For more information on the programs, call the library at 274-9382.
