📚 A Week of Free Library Programs for All Ages in Dunlap — Storytime, Fitness, Genealogy & More

The Sequatchie County Public Library is opening its doors for a full week of free community programming designed to bring families, teens, and adults together. From babies discovering their first stories to genealogy enthusiasts tracing family roots, the library has crafted a schedule that reflects what matters most to valley residents: connection, learning, and wellness across every generation.

🗓️ When It’s Happening

The week runs Monday, August 24 through Friday, August 28, 2026. 📅 The library will be closed Thursday, August 27. Most programs are drop-in with no sign-up required—perfect for families with unpredictable schedules or anyone who wants to try something new without committing in advance.

📍 Where to Go

All programs take place at the Sequatchie County Public Library in Dunlap. 🏛️ The library extends its hours to 7:00 PM on Monday to accommodate the full week of activities, and regular hours apply the rest of the week.

✨ What’s Happening Each Day

Monday, August 24 kicks off with Storytime Sprouts at 10:00 AM for babies and toddlers (birth–3 years). 👶 Parents and caregivers can bring their littlest learners for stories, hands-on play, and activities designed to spark early literacy. At 1:00 PM, adults are invited to Chair Dancing—a free, 45-minute seated workout that promises to get people moving without high impact. 💃 It’s perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a gentler way to stay active.

Tuesday, August 25 features DIG, an archaeological adventure for grades 5–8. 🏺 Kids will investigate mysterious artifacts, uncover clues, and explore a lost culture before creating their own imaginary civilization complete with symbols, messages, and artifacts. (Note: This class is currently full, but interested families can join the waitlist by calling or emailing the library.) Later that afternoon at 4:00 PM, Thrive Tribe Hang Out welcomes teens ages 13–18 for a casual, no-pressure gathering. 🎮 Teens can relax, enjoy games, music, and books, and connect with peers in a library space designed just for them.

Wednesday, August 26 opens with Genealogy Assistance from 9:00–11:00 AM. 🧬 Staff and a volunteer will help residents begin exploring their family history and assist with ongoing research—bring any family records, notes, birth or death dates, or other information you have. At 10:00 AM, Books & Beyond invites children ages 5–12 to enjoy stories, games, and hands-on activities. 🎨 Chair Dancing returns at 1:00 PM for another free adult fitness session.

Friday, August 28 wraps the week with Preschool Page Turners at 10:00 AM for ages 3–5. 📖 Stories, songs, and activities create a perfect Friday morning experience for young learners.

💙 Why This Matters

Free, accessible programming like this strengthens the fabric of a community. For families in the Sequatchie Valley, the library becomes more than a place to borrow books—it becomes a gathering space where parents can connect, children can discover learning through play, and adults can prioritize their health and wellness. 🌟 The variety of offerings means that whether you’re a new parent seeking early literacy support, a middle schooler curious about archaeology, a teenager looking for peer connection, an adult wanting to move your body, or a genealogy enthusiast tracing your roots, there’s something designed with you in mind.

👥 Who Should Come

This week is intentionally designed for everyone. New parents and caregivers will find Storytime Sprouts welcoming and judgment-free. 👶 Families with school-age children can explore DIG or Books & Beyond. Teens seeking a safe, inclusive space will find Thrive Tribe Hang Out. Adults looking to stay active without expensive gym memberships can join Chair Dancing. And anyone curious about their family history—whether you’re just starting or already deep in research—will find support at Genealogy Assistance. 🧬

🎟️ How to Participate

Most programs are drop-in with no sign-up required—simply show up during the listed time. The exception is DIG, which is currently full; interested families can call or email the library to join the waitlist. All programs are free. 💙 The library’s extended Monday hours (8:00 AM–7:00 PM) give working parents and caregivers flexibility to attend morning or afternoon programs.

🌱 Community Connections

Programming like this reflects the library’s role as a community anchor. The Sequatchie County Public Library serves not just as a resource for books and information, but as a place where neighbors meet, families build traditions, and residents of all ages find belonging. 📚 The breadth of this week’s schedule—from infant development to genealogy research—shows how deeply the library understands what matters to valley families: early childhood development, youth engagement, adult wellness, and connection to family history.

❓ Questions Worth Thinking About

As you consider which programs might fit your family or your own interests, think about these questions: What role does your local library play in your family’s weekly routine? Are there programs or services you’d like to see offered? How might connecting with neighbors at library events strengthen your sense of community? What family stories or genealogy questions have you been meaning to explore?

Mark your calendar and plan to visit the Sequatchie County Public Library this week. 📅 Whether you’re looking for a new family tradition, a way to stay active, or a chance to connect with your community, there’s a program waiting for you. Bring a friend, bring your kids, or come solo—the library is ready to welcome you. 💙