Photos: Ruth Keeler Memorial Library’s Back to School Barbecue

The Ruth Keeler Memorial Library hosted a back to school barbecue and story time Saturday on the library lawn for North Salem families. The free event, organized by the Friends of the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, a nonprofit group that serves the library and its patrons, was designed to bring community members together in celebration of the back to school season.

Ellie Ortiz takes part in the photo booth fun at the library. (Benjamin Allen / HudValley Photo)

Author Christina Geist read from her children’s picture books, including “Sorry Grown-Ups, You Can’t Go To School!” and “Buddy’s New Buddy. North Salem resident Eric Pooley and his band Goat Rodeo performed.

Author Christina Geist shares her books with young readers. (Benjamin Allen / HudValley Photo)

Guests were treated to barbecued hamburgers and hot dogs, drinks and sides.

Children enjoyed craft stations and received goodie bags from the library.

Photo by Benjamin Allen, HudValley Photo

Jennifer Gileno, president of the Friends of the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, said, "thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate the start of the school year with us and for donating to The Friends of RKML. Donations to The Friends make events like this possible. We are so thankful to be in a community that understands the value a library brings to all of us. Have a wonderful school year, and please return to the library this fall for many exciting programs!"

Members of the Board of Directors of the Friends of the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, along with author Christina Geist and her husband, Willie Geist. (Photo courtesy of Jen Gileno)

Click below to view more photos from the event.