Foundation Stories

That's a Wrap on Library Lets Loose 2026
  • September 28, 2026

On September 19th, hundreds of Library supporters gathered at Central Resource Library for Library Lets Loose, and what a blockbuster night it was!

Guests stepped into the world of ’80s movies with larger-than-life photo opportunities featuring E.T., Darth Vader, Doc Brown and the DeLorean, the Ghostbusters car, and Jack Torrence—who provided a memorable (and slightly chilling!) photo op. A huge thank you to artist Jeff Roberts for bringing the lifelike Doc Brown and Jack Torrence characters to life!

The night was packed with fun. Dancing with DJ Stann, surprise breakdancers and rapping from MC Flare the Rebel, to arcade games, a silent auction, delicious food from 15 restaurants, and plenty of ’80s nostalgia. We were also thrilled to welcome Heidi Gardner as our Honorary Host and to celebrate with so many wonderful Library supporters.

Thank you to everyone who made the evening possible. To our attendees, sponsors, donors, vendors, restaurant partners, entertainers, volunteers and event team: your enthusiasm, generosity and hard work made Library Lets Loose an unforgettable night. We are so grateful for your support of the Johnson County Library and the community we serve.

Thank you again for making Library Lets Loose 2026 a night to remember.

Check out the photos from the evening via the two gallery buttons below and relive all the fun!

We’ll see you for the sequel.

Gallery 1
Gallery 2

  • August 25, 2026

The countdown to Library Lets Loose: ’80s Movies is on (we hope you’re planning to join us on September 19th!), and we’re getting ready to make the silent auction one of the most exciting parts of the night!

This year’s auction is packed with unforgettable experiences, local favorites, getaways, entertainment, food and drink, and a few surprises you won’t want to miss. And this is just a sneak peek. More items and experiences are being added every day, and many of these incredible donations will be combined with other items to create one-of-a-kind packages.

Whether you’re looking for a night out, a new adventure, something special for your family, or a little treat for yourself, there will be plenty to tempt the highest bidder. Even better, if you are unable to join us in person for Library Lets Loose, you can still join the silent auction fun from your phone or computer!

Movie Magic and Entertainment

Since this year’s Library Lets Loose is all about ’80s Movies, it’s only fitting that our auction has plenty of opportunities to enjoy the big screen and the stage.

Bid on four AMC movie passes, popcorn and drink passes, movie candy and fun Transformers and Garfield collectibles, or grab eight B&B Theatre movie passes and four large popcorn vouchers.

Looking for something beyond the movies? You could score two tickets to Fannie at KC Rep, two tickets to a Folly Jazz or Folly Americana show, four tickets to an Owen Cox Dance Group performance, two tickets to any show at the Midwest Trust Center, or two indoor reserved seats to Theatre in the Park’s Dracula this October.

For sports fans, we’ve got something pretty special: two Kansas City Chiefs tickets to the November 22 game against the Arizona Cardinals. The tickets are in Section 328, Row 9, with a retail value of $352.

And for a truly behind-the-scenes experience, Fox4 is offering a tour of the station with Crystal Martinez, plus the chance to watch a live taping. We’re calling that one priceless for a reason!

Experiences You Can’t Buy Every Day

Some of the most exciting auction offerings are experiences you’ll be talking about long after the night is over.

How about a private holiday lights tour through the Kansas City metro aboard a 14-passenger minicoach? Or a Johnson County Crime Lab experience, where you’ll actually solve a crime using tools and techniques employed by the Crime Lab?

You can also bid on a private cooking class for two at Jyoti Kitchen, complete with a copy of Heartland Masala, or learn the ins and outs of mahjong with a personalized two-hour lesson with Kelli Breer.

For those ready to get creative, Scent Makers is offering a pass for two to a public workshop, while Lead Through Style will help one lucky winner discover their perfect colors with a personalized color analysis session.

If you’ve ever wanted to meet one of America’s most famous presidents, you’re in luck. An Abraham Lincoln re-enactor will provide a private meet-and-greet and speech for the winner’s event of choice, whether that’s a party, gala, school assembly, organization benefit or another special occasion.

Book lovers can also look forward to a special experience from Natalie Moussa, who is offering an author talk and book signing featuring her heartwarming children’s book Kingston’s Story, which follows a shelter dog’s journey toward finding a loving family. Half of the book’s profits are donated to animal shelters, making this a meaningful experience for animal lovers and readers alike.

Kansas City Adventures

There’s plenty of local fun up for grabs, too.

Take the family to the Kansas City Zoo with four tickets and Platinum Ride wristbands, enjoy a year of unlimited admission for four at Wonderscope, or explore the Johnson County Museum, Museum at Prairiefire, or the National WWI Museum and Memorial.

You can also bid on a one-year family membership to the Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City, valued at $2,361.

Feeling competitive? Grab a group lane reservation for up to 10 at Fowling Warehouse KC, pickleball passes from The Greenspace, a family four-pack to Sky Zone, 2-hour 2 person pass at BRKTHROUGH, or an annual membership to Powder Creek Shooting Range.

For art and culture lovers, the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art is offering a museum basket filled with coffee table books and goodies.

And for a date night with a little extra flair, Up-Down KC is offering a package with 40 tokens, two slices of pizza and a fanny pack.

Food, Drinks and a Little Indulgence

Let’s be honest: a silent auction isn’t complete without plenty of delicious options.

There will be gift cards and goodies from favorites including Fogo de Chao, Q39, Hereford House, Big Grove Brewery, Monarch, Freddy’s, Crumbl Cookies, Servaes Shawnee and more.

You can also bid on a private Total Wine & More class for 20, valued at $600.

And then there’s the J. Rieger Whiskey Wagon. This package includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the J. Rieger distillery for two with a post-tour tasting, five bottles of Kansas City favorites, two four-packs of special-edition KU vodka seltzers, a vintage wagon and drink recipe cards. In other words: you’ll fall off the wagon when you’re the highest bidder!

Treat Yourself

The auction is also a great excuse to do something nice for yourself.

Bid on a customized facial from Élevé Esthétique by Mona, a 90-minute customized facial from NS Beauty Bar, or a collection of wellness experiences from Zen Vita Chiropractic, including neurofeedback, Healing Arc and infrared sauna sessions.

Looking for a little style upgrade? Kendra Scott is offering a beautiful necklace and earrings, while Garmin has donated a Lily 2 watch.

And for readers, there are plenty of literary treats, including a tote filled with books from Helianthus Books, a bookish coffee mug and gift card from Monsteras, and a book-and-gift package from Rainy Day Books.

Smitten is also bringing a little something special to the auction with a gift card and small gift items.

For those who love a little self-care, Walli’s Wellness Studio is offering four class passes and two books, giving one lucky winner several opportunities to relax, recharge and try something new.

Make Some Memories

Some auction items are all about creating something you’ll treasure for years.

Portraits by Christopher is offering an exclusive portrait experience, including a family portrait and a pet portrait, each with a studio session and an 11×14 fine art portrait.

Strauss Peyton has donated both a Family Portrait Certificate and a Legacy Portrait Certificate, offering winners the opportunity to create beautiful, custom portraits designed around the people and relationships that matter most.

And Kansas City fine artist Trisha Stan is bringing two extraordinary opportunities to the auction: a Custom Heirloom Oil Painting, and the chance to own an original live painting created at Library Lets Loose: “As You Wish.”

A Few More Reasons to Start Saving Your Bids

Still looking for something to put on your wish list? We’ve got you covered.

You could bid on a Scheels gift card, a Margaritaville KCK overnight stay, a king suite stay at the Fairfield Inn or Residence Inn, tickets to the KC Wheel, passes to Powell Gardens, or a travel gift card from Marvelous Mouse Travels.

This list is only the beginning. More items and experiences are being added every day, and we’ll be combining many of these donations into exciting packages with additional items. You’ll have even more opportunities to find something you love, discover something new and support the Library while you bid.

Ready to Start Bidding?

The Library Lets Loose silent auction will go live on the Library Lets Loose event website the week of September 14th, so keep an eye out for the announcement and start making your wish list now.

Every bid helps support the work of Johnson County Library and the programs, resources and opportunities that make our Library such an important part of our community.

We couldn’t make this auction happen without the incredible businesses, organizations, artists and individuals who donated their time, talents, products and experiences.

To every auction provider: thank you for your generosity and for helping us make Library Lets Loose possible. We are so grateful for your support of Johnson County Library!

Now start planning your bidding strategy. There are some seriously good finds waiting for you!

Learn more about Library Lets Loose and bookmark the page for Silent Auction fun: LibraryLetsLoose.org.

  • August 10, 2026

Every great ’80s movie has an unforgettable ending. This year, your grand finale could be a four-night getaway for two to Hawaii.

The Library Lets Loose Golden Ticket Raffle gives you the chance to choose your island paradise. Have you been dreaming of the beaches of O’ahu, the lush landscapes of Kaua’i, the beauty of Maui, or the adventure of the Big Island? One lucky winner will get to make that dream a reality.

Even better? Only 200 Golden Tickets will be sold.

Your odds are better than with most raffles, and every ticket purchased supports Johnson County Library.

The Best Plot Twist?

You Don’t Have to Be There to Win.

Can’t make it to Library Lets Loose this year? You can still be part of the excitement.

The winning ticket will be drawn during the event, but you do not need to be present to win. Buy your Golden Ticket, cheer us on from wherever you are, and you could still find yourself planning a Hawaiian vacation.

Every Ticket Supports Something Bigger

Every ticket purchased supports innovative programs, expands access to Library services, and creates opportunities for people of all ages to learn, connect, and grow.

When you purchase a Golden Ticket, you’re ensuring that our community continues to have access to the books, technology, programs, and welcoming spaces that make Johnson County Library so special.

Don’t Miss Your Chance

With only 200 tickets available at $100 each, the Golden Ticket Raffle is one of the most exciting ways to support Johnson County Library while giving yourself a real chance to win an unforgettable vacation.

Think of it as your ticket to paradise and your way of helping create new stories and opportunities here at home.

Ready for your blockbuster ending? Purchase your Golden Ticket today at LibraryLetsLoose.org.

Logo of Johnson County Library Foundation with colorful design.

Library Lets Loose: ’80s Movies Edition
Saturday, September 19, 2026
6:30–10 p.m.
Central Resource Library
9875 W 87th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
www.LibraryLetsLoose.org

Get Tickets

  • July 20, 2026

If you’ve never been to Library Lets Loose, this is your year.

For one night only, Johnson County Library transforms into an after-hours celebration unlike anything else in our community. On Saturday, September 19th, you’ll experience the Library in a whole new way filled with music, laughter, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of surprises around every corner.

Library Lets Loose is a celebration of the Library and the people who make it such a vibrant part of our community. This year’s co-chairs, Bonnie and Chris Limbird captured it perfectly:

“If you’re a reader, a writer, a maker, a caregiver, an entrepreneur, a student, a collector, a researcher, or just an advocate of public libraries in general, then what better place to throw the best party in town than our biggest library in the county after hours when the lights go down and characters can come out to play?”

Whether you’re coming for the nostalgia, the chance to support the Library, or a fun night out with your friends, here’s a preview of what you can expect.

A Night Full of ’80s Fun

This year’s theme celebrates the unforgettable movies of the 1980s, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself stepping into some of your favorite movie moments throughout the evening.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos at themed photo stations, test your knowledge with ’80s trivia, challenge your friends to classic arcade games, and discover a few surprise moments that we’re keeping under wraps for now. You’ll just have to be there to experience them.

Come dressed to impress! If you’ve been looking for an excuse to wear neon, leg warmers, or your favorite movie-inspired outfit, this is it. ’80s attire is encouraged but not required.

Dance, Eat, Bid, and Celebrate

Once DJ Stann starts spinning your favorite throwback hits, don’t expect the dance floor to stay empty for long.

Throughout the evening, you’ll enjoy delicious bites and beverages from local vendors while catching up with friends, meeting fellow Library supporters, and celebrating everything our Library brings to the community.

The Golden Ticket raffle is back with an exclusive trip to Hawaii where you’ll choose the island and enjoy the fun. Each raffle ticket is $100 with a maximum of 200 entries, so you have a great chance to win!

Attendees will also be treated to a silent auction filled with fantastic prizes and experiences from your favorite local businesses.

With more than 650 guests expected, Library Lets Loose is Johnson County Library’s biggest celebration of the year.

Chefs preparing gourmet dishes at Library Lets Loose 2025 event.

Meet This Year’s Honorary Host

We’re thrilled to welcome Heidi Gardner, celebrated comedian and longtime Saturday Night Live cast member, as this year’s Honorary Host.

Heidi’s Kansas City roots, quick wit, and love of community make her the perfect addition to an evening that’s all about bringing people together in support of the Library.

Want the VIP Experience?

One of the best ways to experience Library Lets Loose is as an event sponsor.

Sponsors receive exclusive early access to the event and are invited to a private VIP Meet & Greet with Heidi Gardner before the doors open. It’s a unique opportunity to spend time with Heidi, connect with other sponsors, and enjoy a relaxed start to an unforgettable evening.

Sponsorship also includes recognition throughout the event while helping make Library programs and services possible for thousands of people in our community.

Don’t Miss the Library’s Biggest Party

Woman playing violin at Library Lets Loose 2025 event.

Every year, Library Lets Loose brings together people who believe in the power of libraries and who know how to have a great time.

From the themed experiences and dance party to the unexpected moments that become everyone’s favorite stories the next day, it’s an evening unlike any other.

Join us for this one-of-a-kind celebration. Grab your tickets, invite your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable night, all while supporting Johnson County Library.

Tickets and Sponsorships are available at LibraryLetsLoose.org.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Logo of Johnson County Library Foundation with colorful design.

Library Lets Loose: ’80s Movies Edition
Saturday, September 19, 2026
6:30–10 p.m.
Central Resource Library
9875 W 87th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
www.LibraryLetsLoose.org

Get Tickets

Meet our Co-Chairs: Bonnie and Chris Limbird.
  • June 23, 2026

Longtime Library supporters, dedicated volunteers, and enthusiastic advocates, Bonnie and Chris have said “yes” to the Library in countless ways over the years. Now, they’re stepping into a new role as co-chairs of Library Lets Loose 2026, helping lead the Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

Bonnie’s connection to Johnson County Library began more than two decades ago.

“Getting my JoCo Library card was one of the first things I did when I moved to Johnson County from Missouri as a young professional in 2000,” she said.

In 2004, she began volunteering with the Friends of Johnson County Library, working shifts at the Blue Valley Friends bookstore and later serving on the Friends Board. In 2012, she reconnected with the Library through the Foundation, volunteering in the office and serving on one of the very first Library Lets Loose planning committees.

Today, she serves on the Foundation Board and remains one of the Library’s biggest champions.

“It’s more clear than ever that the Library is always there for me, and I’m always there for the Library,” Bonnie said. “Twenty years and counting.”

Chris has also had a longstanding love of Libraries and all they have to offer. Growing up in Topeka, he eagerly awaited a weekly visit from the bookmobile parked near his neighborhood grocery store.

“That accessibility was really integral to my interest and love of reading,” he said.

Those early experiences helped shape a lifelong appreciation for libraries and the role they play in building stronger communities.

“Libraries are just such a benefit for everyone in their communities,” Chris says.  “The broad range of library services has something for everyone – books to help kids and adults both learn something new, or to just relax and enjoy a story; the MakerSpace to allow people to exercise their creative juices; computer/internet services; during the summer they serve as cooling centers in times of extreme heat. All of this in one great place with friendly staff to help you.  And they’re open to everyone – there’s no barrier to entry.  Why wouldn’t you want to support an institution like that?”

Both Bonnie and Chris have experienced firsthand the many ways the Library serves its community. Bonnie loves accessing Libby through her library card, which keeps her supplied with a steady stream of eBooks and audiobooks. Over the years, she has also relied on Library meeting spaces for everything from Girl Scout troop meetings to PTA retreats.

“The ability to reserve rooms for any purpose, with technology capabilities, is an amazing resource for Johnson County residents,” she said.

When asked to serve as this year’s Library Lets Loose co-chairs, Bonnie and Chris didn’t hesitate.

“Serving as co-chairs was an easy yes for Chris and me,” Bonnie said. “We’re so honored to be asked. The Library and Foundation staff are so warm and welcoming, and it’s just a joy to be a part of it. We want to help continue the growth and success of Library Lets Loose.”

What are they most excited about this year?

The answer came quickly: the ’80s movie theme.

“As kids of the 1980s, we’re very excited,” Bonnie said. “We’re planning to dress on theme as well!”

For those who have never attended Library Lets Loose, the Limbirds say it’s unlike any other fundraising event in Johnson County.

“If you’re a reader, a writer, a maker, a caregiver, an entrepreneur, a student, a collector, a researcher, or just an advocate of public libraries in general, then what better place to hold the best party in town than our biggest library in the county after hours when the lights go down and characters can come out to play.”

The evening brings together everything people love about Johnson County Library and the community that surrounds it, including local food and drinks, live entertainment, silent auction packages, music, dancing, and plenty of surprises along the way.

“This is the event of the year where you can be surrounded by all the things you love about libraries and the library community,” they said.

While the event is certainly a lot of fun, Bonnie and Chris are quick to point out that it also supports something much bigger.

“Library Lets Loose is a fun way to help keep services running and growing as the community grows and changes,” Bonnie said. “It’s important to support local libraries however you can, through your time, talents, or treasure.”

We’re so grateful to have Bonnie and Chris leading this year’s event creating another unforgettable evening in support of Johnson County Library.

Join us on Saturday, September 19th, for Library Lets Loose 2026. With a fun ’80s movie theme, great food and drinks, exclusive auction experiences, and a Library transformed after hours, you won’t want to miss it.

Logo of Johnson County Library Foundation with colorful design.

Library Lets Loose: ’80s Movies Edition
Saturday, September 19, 2026
6:30–10 p.m.
Central Resource Library
9875 W 87th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
www.libraryletsloose.org

Get Tickets

Johnson County Library Foundation celebrating at the 10th anniversary event.
  • September 29, 2025

What a night! More than 500 guests filled Central Resource Library for the 10th annual Library Lets Loose, and together we raised over $140,000 to put more books on shelves in 2026. Thanks to your generosity, our shelves will be filled with even more stories, ideas, and opportunities for the entire community to enjoy.

The evening was packed with unforgettable moments: dazzling performances by an aerialist, a juggler, a strolling violinist, and DJ Stann on a lively dance floor. Guests feasted on bites and drinks from Of Course Kitchen Co., Sweet Tooth Desserts, Char Bar, Strang Hall, Kate Smith Soirée, and more. Our Honorary Host, Erwin Abrams, shared a moving reflection on the importance of reading and this year’s theme, while around 15 celebrity volunteers, including local elected officials, rolled up their sleeves to make the night shine.

Guests cheered to the freedom to read, embraced the theme by donning red, white, and blue, and bid enthusiastically on 24 silent auction packages, from premium Chiefs tickets to an Ultimate Taylor Swift Basket.

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us to celebrate, support, and make a difference. The joy in the room was undeniable, and it shows in the photos.

Mark your calendars for next year’s Library Lets Loose:
Saturday, September 19th, 2026 | Central Resource Library | 6:30 – 10 p.m.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you in 2026!

Below are the photos from the event. (To download on a computer, open the image. Right click and choose ‘Save Image As.’)

Johnson County Library Foundation staff organizing books for 2025 event.
  • September 11, 2025

Mark your calendars, because Saturday, September 20th from 6:30–10:00 p.m. at Central Resource Library is right around the corner and it’s shaping up to be the best night of the year! Library Lets Loose is back for its 10th anniversary celebration, and we’re pulling out all the stops to make this year unforgettable. Whether you’ve already snagged your ticket or are still thinking it over, here’s everything you can look forward to.

Mouth-Watering Treats

Enjoy delicious food from some local favorites:

  • Atomic Cowboy
  • Jason’s Deli
  • Kate Smith Soirée
  • Whole Harvest Kitchen
  • Bikanervala
  • Char Bar
  • Strang Hall favorites Fenix and Anousone
  • Sweet Tooth Desserts
  • Of Course. Kitchen & Company
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes
  • Old Shawnee Pizza

No party is complete without drinks. You’ll find multiple open bars featuring KC Bier Co., Boulevard Brewery, J. Rieger & Co., and more. Prefer something lighter? Plenty of non-alcoholic options will also be close at hand.

Entertainment Everywhere

Library Lets Loose transforms the Library into a party unlike any other. Guests can:

  • Enjoy live entertainment throughout the evening
  • Dance along with DJ Stann or cheer on the brave souls from the comfort of a cozy chair
  • Take part in a scavenger hunt that winds through the Library (spoiler alert: it’s trickier than it looks!)
  • Visit the MakerSpace, where staff will show off amazing equipment and projects. Ever wonder what a 3D printer or laser cutter can do? Here’s your chance

From the dance floor to the quiet corners of the Library, there will be something fun for everyone.

Raffles and Auctions

Get ready for some friendly competition.

Golden Ticket Raffle – One lucky winner will get to choose from dream trips to Lake Tahoe, Jackson Hole, Mexico, or Hawaii.

Silent Auction – With more than a dozen unique packages (and more still rolling in), there’s something for everyone:

  • Behind-the-scenes library tour with the County Librarian
  • Chiefs premium tickets and Royals Diamond Club seats
  • Family portrait session
  • Independent Bookstore self-guided tour
  • MAPS Coffee & Chocolate tasting experience
  • Holiday lights tour
  • Private chef dinner for six
  • Wood, Whiskey, Wine & Wagyu evening
  • The Saloon Takeover party package
  • Folly Theater, KC Renaissance Festival, and Midwest Trust Center tickets
  • Johnson County Crime Lab tour
  • Family membership to the Jewish Community Center
  • “Fall Off Our Whiskey Wagon” basket
  • Ultimate Taylor Swift basket

With choices ranging from sports and theater to foodie indulgences and adventures, the only challenge will be deciding what to bid on.

Why It Matters

Library Lets Loose is more than an incredible night out. It is a celebration of what libraries mean to our community: access to books, lifelong learning, creativity, and connection.

This year’s support is especially important. The Library is facing a $165,000 loss in federal funding that will impact the 2026 book budget. By attending, bidding, and raising a glass, you’re helping to keep shelves full and ensure that everyone in Johnson County has access to the resources they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

Join the Celebration

We are grateful to our Honorary Hosts Erwin and Phyllis Abrams and to our dedicated Library Lets Loose Committee: Lisa Larson-Bunnell, Marsha Daley, and Anjali Pandya.

Now all that’s missing is you. Tickets are going fast, so don’t miss your chance to be part of Kansas City’s most joyful library event of the year.

Grab Your Tickets Today at LibraryLetsLoose.org

We can’t wait to celebrate with you on September 20th at Central Resource Library.

Library Lets Loose 2025: Freedom to Read

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

Get Tickets

We are thrilled to announce the Honorary Hosts of Library Lets Loose 2025: Erwin and Phyllis Abrams!
  • August 25, 2025

We are thrilled to announce the Honorary Hosts of Library Lets Loose 2025: Erwin and Phyllis Abrams!

For Erwin and Phyllis, libraries aren’t just buildings filled with books; they are vibrant community hubs, places of discovery, and safe spaces for all ages. Erwin’s love of libraries began at the tender age of three, when his older brother took him to his local library. That sense of awe has lasted over 80 years, and it’s a passion both he and Phyllis continue to nurture.

Meet Your Favorite Teacher: Matt Eicheldinger April 2024 Library Event

“My wife and I give in order to preserve that child’s sense of awe, that adult’s resource for research, that senior citizen’s place of quiet and safety,” Erwin says. “We give because strengthening community means strengthening America. And we give because we feel good about building Johnson County.”

For 14 years, Erwin has been an active member and generous contributor to the Johnson County Library Foundation, helping ensure that our libraries remain welcoming spaces where curiosity, learning, and imagination can thrive.

Erwin’s love of reading spans from 20th-century history to contemporary mysteries, with authors like Harlan Coben, David Baldacci, and Daniel Silva always at the top of his list. “I read late into the evening, perched on my favorite couch,” he shares. And while every library in the Johnson County system has its charm, Leawood Pioneer holds a special place in his heart.

This year, Erwin and Phyllis are inviting you to join the celebration at Library Lets Loose 2025! Come see them in person, enjoy the festivities, and support the libraries they cherish so deeply.

Can’t attend? You can still honor them, and help our libraries thrive, by making a gift in their name at jocolibraryfoundation.org/donate.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate, give back, and have a fantastic evening, because nothing says fun quite like supporting the library you love.

Library Lets Loose 2025: Freedom to Read

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

Get Tickets

Let Loose, Give Back, and Celebrate the Freedom to Read
  • July 31, 2025

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.

Family enjoying storytime at Johnson County Library.

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.

Student engaging in a classroom activity at Johnson County Library Foundation.

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 2025: Freedom to Read

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

Get Tickets

Why you should sponsor Library Lets Loose
  • July 24, 2025

At Johnson County Library, we uplift all library goers, from our newest patrons to our most seasoned ones. Be it a baby art club session or an author talk, we all enjoy access to the Library’s resources and the communities it creates and fosters. The Library is a place for friends, families, and new insightful connections.

Regardless of personal background, Johnson County Library patrons all share the same source of joy, that is, the joy of discovery, of limitless opportunities. Each day, your friends and neighbors learn, create, and have fun in one of our fourteen branch locations. Each book, each edition of elementia, and each 6 by 6 learning unit contains a story of learning.

Readers, volunteers, and even our youngest learners prove the power of library access. With over 40% of the Johnson County community holding library cards and over 87% approval rating by citizens each year, it’s clear that this place is a special one.

Looking for a sure way to make the Library’s impact is even greater? Sponsor Library Lets Loose. This annual soirée reminds us of our power in numbers! Each year, Library Lets Loose contributes over $150,000 to support our physical book collection.

Library Lets Loose is one night to celebrate our contributions as a community. On September 20th, the Library will host 12 local restaurants with yummy bites, cocktails from J. Rieger and Wild Child, fun interactive games, dancing with DJ Stann, and more!

This year’s theme, “Freedom to Read”, reminds us that freedom is an ongoing project to which we all must contribute. Our Library relies on donors like you to increase our opportunities for accessible learning.

As Library Lets Loose Co-Chair, Lisa Larson-Bunnell reminds us, “some of the Library programs that are most important to me are funded solely through grants and donations.  I want our library system to have a robust array of services that benefit our entire community.”

As a donor, you too directly benefit from your contributions. More funding for the Library directly translates to more resources for you and your loved ones to share with the community.

By sponsoring Library Lets Loose, you may obtain tickets for an exclusive night out while supporting the Library system. Sponsoring through your company also provides a great opportunity for community enrichment while also encouraging your clients or employees to let loose for a night.

Unable to attend? Consider purchasing a Golden Ticket with a chance to win a trip for two of your choosing to Hawaii, Mexico, Lake Tahoe, or Jackson Hole. With only 200 golden tickets available, the odds are in your favor! You do not need to be present to win. Your contribution will enhance the Johnson County Library’s offerings for you and fellow patrons– a win-win situation for all library lovers.

The success of our public institutions starts with you. Make an even greater impact today by sponsoring Library Lets Loose 2025: Freedom to Read. For more information on sponsoring, visit the event sponsorship page.

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Your investment in Johnson County Library generates a 300% return.