How Eating Ice Cream Helps This Library Stay Open (And Why You Should Care)
At first glance, ice cream and libraries seem like an unlikely pair. But at Northland Public Library, this delicious combination is proving to be a recipe for success in keeping vital community services running. As one of Allegheny County’s busiest libraries – with over 1 million materials checked out last year alone – Northland has found a surprisingly sweet solution to funding challenges: partnering with local ice cream shop Millie’s for a “Dine to Donate” fundraiser that turns dessert lovers into library supporters.
The Scoop on the Sweetest Fundraiser in Town
On April 10 from 4-8 PM, something remarkable will happen at Millie’s Ice Cream in Pine. Every sundae ordered, every cone purchased, and every milkshake sipped will directly benefit Northland Public Library, with 20% of all sales during those four golden hours being donated to support library operations. But the genius of this fundraiser goes beyond just showing up – the library has created multiple ways for the community to participate:
🍨 Preorder Special Treats (Deadline: April 7)
- Sundae Box ($49): Enough for a family ice cream party
- Sundae Kit ($30): Build-your-own sundae essentials
- Individual Pints ($9.50): Perfect for personal indulgence
🚗 Convenient Pickup Options
Preordered items can be collected during the event window, making it easy for busy families to participate while still getting their ice cream fix.
“Most people don’t realize how much libraries rely on community support beyond tax funding,” explains Nicholas Yon, Northland’s Communications Director. “This fundraiser makes supporting your library as easy – and delicious – as enjoying dessert with your family.”
Why Ice Cream Money Matters More Than You Think
Northland Public Library serves as a lifeline for over 90,000 residents across five municipalities (Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, Marshall, McCandless, and Ross). The numbers tell an impressive story:
📚 Collection Stats
- 200,000+ physical items (books, DVDs, magazines)
- 1.8 million digital resources (eBooks, audiobooks, streaming media)
- 1,027,974 checkouts/renewals in 2024 (3rd straight year as county leader)
💡 Beyond Books
- Virtual Reality headsets for immersive learning
- Take-home science experiment kits
- Outdoor explorer backpacks complete with nature guides
- Board game collection for family game nights
Despite these impressive offerings, libraries face constant financial pressures. Northland is currently undergoing a $4 million renovation (set to finish this summer) to modernize its facilities, and ongoing costs for programs, staff, and materials continue to rise. Fundraisers like the ice cream partnership help bridge these gaps in unexpected ways.
The Bigger Picture: How Communities Support Libraries
While Northland receives primary funding from its five member municipalities and state sources, creative fundraising accounts for about 5-10% of its annual budget. These dollars make a tangible difference by:
- Expanding Program Offerings: Supporting summer reading programs, author visits, and technology workshops
- Upgrading Technology: Maintaining VR equipment, computers, and digital lending platforms
- Preserving Collections: Replacing worn books and adding new bestsellers
- Enhancing Spaces: Funding comfortable seating, study areas, and children’s play spaces
The ice cream fundraiser alone could generate 3,000−5,000 – enough to purchase 150 new books or fund a month’s worth of children’s programming.
Sweet Success Stories: How Patrons Benefit
For regular library users like the Ramakrishna family from Marshall, these community-supported resources are invaluable. “We come every weekend,” says Griffin Ramakrishna. “The kids get books, we check out movies for family night, and sometimes we’ll try one of their science kits. It’s our favorite free activity.”
Mary Jayne Cramer, a retired physical therapist who now works as a shelver, sees the impact daily. “People think libraries are just about books, but we’re really about connection. That teenager using our VR set for a school project? The senior citizen attending our tech help class? The mom checking out a parenting book? They’re all why we do this.”
How You Can Be Part of the Solution
Supporting your local library doesn’t require grand gestures. Small actions create big impacts:
- Participate in the Ice Cream Fundraiser (April 10, Millie’s in Pine)
- Attend Library Programs (Boost attendance numbers that help secure grants)
- Donate Gently Used Books (Expands collection at minimal cost)
- Advocate for Library Funding (Contact local representatives)
- Simply Check Out Materials (High circulation justifies budget requests)
As National Library Week approaches (April 6-12), Northland will showcase municipal proclamations supporting libraries and host special events. But perhaps the most impactful celebration will happen at Millie’s Ice Cream, where every spoonful supports the library’s future.
The Last Bite
In an era where libraries face increasing challenges, creative solutions like ice cream fundraisers represent more than just clever marketing – they’re a testament to community ingenuity. When you enjoy that scoop of cookies-and-cream on April 10, remember: you’re not just treating yourself, you’re helping keep Northland’s doors open, lights on, and shelves stocked for everyone who depends on it.
Sweet Details:
📍 Millie’s Ice Cream: 11978 Perry Highway, Pine, PA
📅 Event: April 10, 4-8 PM
🛒 Preorders: millies-fundraising.square.site (Deadline April 7)
ℹ️ Library Info: northlandlibrary.org
