Summer is just around the corner! Programs will be on-going during the next few months. You can check them out at FCPL.org or come to your local library! Enjoy prizes and give-aways, new stories, and new friends. Bring your friends and let's get ready for some summer fun at the library!"

With the Thurmont Regional Library slated to officially open to the public on August 2, two important pre-opening library events are slated for July 19.

The public is invited to witness the laying of the cornerstone of The Thurmont Regional Library on Saturday, July 19 at 11:00 a.m. at the site of the new library at 76 East Moser Road in Thurmont. Acacia Lodge No. 155 of Thurmont Maryland will conduct the ceremony under the guidance of Most Worshipful Grand Master John R. Biggs, Jr. Officers of the Grand Lodge of Masons from Hunt Valley, Maryland will be participating as well as the officers of the Acacia Lodge. In full Masonic regalia, participants will ceremonially set the engraved cornerstone at the entrance to the new library.

Although the cornerstone-laying ritual is strictly symbolic, it's based on proven building techniques when stone masons used the tools of their trade - the square, level and plumb - to ensure the first block of the building was correctly laid according to the Masons' history. The ceremony of the laying of cornerstones dates to antiquity. In fact, in 1793, George Washington presided over the Masonic ceremony of laying the cornerstone of the U.S. Capitol.

The other event on July 19 will be the permanent closing of the Thurmont Branch at 11 Water Street. Library services will cease for two weeks to prepare for the move and re-opening of the new building on August 2 at 9:30 a.m. On Saturday, July 19, you and your family may want to make one final stop to check out materials and to recall fond memories of time spent reading, studying or having fun at the old Thurmont Branch Library.