The 2026 summer reading program “Unearth a Story” featured a prehistoric, dinosaur-themed celebration of reading and activities. Throughout the summer, toddlers, children and teens enjoyed weekly programs at the Lexington County Public Libraries. Our Gilbert-Summit Branch Library had weekly programs that attracted hundreds of children to enroll in the summer reading program.

The Gilbert-Summit Branch Library said it was filled with gratitude for the many sponsors who helped make “Unearth a Story” such a memorable summer. Their generosity encouraged a love of reading and learning and helped families create lasting memories through programs, prizes and special events.

More than 50 sponsors, which included local businesses, Friends of the Library groups and branch-level sponsors made the summer reading program a huge success.

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, and the theme this year is a library card “Hits all the Right Notes.” Having a library card includes many benefits. A South Carolina library card gives residents free access to physical and digital books, audiobooks, streaming media, research databases and public computers.

A unique perk of having a library card is having free passes to South Carolina state parks and local museums. From Nov. 16 through Jan. 31, the fall and winter reading program will be active at our libraries. For further information on activities and weekly programs, call the Gilbert-Summit Branch Library at 803-785-5387.

Gilbert High School Principal David F. Dixon was recently named the 2026 Joseph M. Bedenbaugh Administrator of the Year. This prestigious award honors an outstanding leader who goes above and beyond for students, staff and community members. Dixon was nominated by a team of his own teachers and colleagues. Principal Dixon embodies the “LEAD the Gilbert Way” spirt at GHS.

Eleven members of Lake Murray VFW Post 6740 volunteered with Code 3 Property Management to help a retired veteran take care of his yard. VFW 6740 comrades, auxiliary members and veteran supporters showed up to help clean his yard. Code 3 Property Management was graciously thanked for honoring a deserving veteran from VFW Post 6740. Code 3 Property established a community service program designed to help a veteran each month. "Code 3 Cares" was designed to help veterans and retired first responders whose property may need a little extra help.