written by Melissa Stan
It starts with a book.
At the Gardner Library, a parent sits cross-legged in the kids’ section, reading The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the tenth time—not because they have to, but because their child’s face lights up with every turn of the page. Around them, storytime songs echo, and tiny readers begin their lifelong journey with books.
Across the county at Central Resource Library, a grandfather gently feeds faded photographs into a scanner in the Library’s Memory Lab. Each click preserves a moment: a childhood birthday, a family vacation, a long-lost smile. For him, the Library becomes a bridge between the past and the present.
At Lenexa City Center Library, community members gather in a sunlit meeting space with coffees in hand. It’s a Legislative Coffee morning and neighbors have come to hear from elected officials. It’s a rare opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and listen without a filter. At the Library, civic engagement feels accessible and deeply personal.
Meanwhile, at Monticello Library, a high school student spreads out notebooks in a reservable study room. It’s quiet, comfortable, and hers for a couple hours. It’s the perfect place to prep for finals or tackle a group project. In a world full of distractions, the Library offers focused space to think, learn, and grow.
These stories are simple, real, and quietly powerful. They’re unfolding every day in all 14 Johnson County Library branches.
And behind them all is one joyful, mission-driven night: Library Lets Loose.
A Party With Purpose
On Saturday, September 20, the Library Foundation invites you to join us at Central Resource Library for the 10th anniversary of Library Lets Loose. It’s our signature fundraising event, filled with food, drinks, games, a silent auction, and a dance floor that keeps the good vibes going all night.
But more than a party, this event is a celebration of everything Johnson County Library stands for: Access. Discovery. Joy. This year, our theme says it all: Freedom to Read.
We Put the FUN in Fundraiser
Library Lets Loose isn’t your typical fundraiser. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of night, filled with laughter, discovery, and making new friends.
The dress code is joyful and come-as-you-are. You’ll see everything from playful red, white, and blue outfits (a nod to our Freedom to Read theme) to casual cocktail attire. Think comfortable, festive, and ready for anything, from filling up on amazing food to dancing the night away.
Come hungry. With mouthwatering bites from a dozen local favorites, including Strang Hall, Char Bar, Kate Smith Soiree, Atomic Cowboy, Whole Harvest Kitchen, and more, you’ll have plenty to sample and savor. Sip on a beer from KC Bier Co., a refreshing non-alcoholic option, or our signature Let Loose Juice from our pals at J. Rieger & Co. as you mingle and explore.
Throughout the night, you’ll be surrounded by fellow library enthusiasts, including local elected officials who are volunteering and celebrating a shared commitment to access, education, and community. This event is a reminder of how powerful it is when people come together to support something bigger than themselves.
Before the dance floor heats up, there’s plenty to entertain. Join the scavenger hunt and browse our silent auction filled with can’t-miss items and experiences.
When the clock hits 8:30 p.m., DJ Stann takes over and the dance floor opens. This is the part of the night when library lovers let loose, and the energy is contagious.
So, grab your friends, bring your book club, or come make new connections. Let’s toast to our love of public libraries, while raising important funding for the Johnson County Library.
Library Lets Loose: Freedom to Read
Saturday, September 20, 2025
6:30–10 p.m.
Central Resource Library
9875 W 87th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
www.libraryletsloose.org
