FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 21, 2026

Books meet pumpkins in annual library contest

COLUMBUS, N. C., (September 21, 2026) Polk County Public Libraries invite the community to participate in a Literary Pumpkin Challenge this October! All ages are welcome to join the fun by decorating a pumpkin that represents a favorite book or book character. Participants may drop off their decorated pumpkins at the Columbus Library or Saluda Library during open hours from October 12th-15th.

Pumpkins may be real or faux, and decorations can include craft supplies and props. To ensure safety and longevity, no carving is allowed; cut or pierced pumpkins will not be accepted. Any pumpkins that rot before the contest ends will also be discarded. Entries will be displayed at both libraries and featured on the library’s Facebook page for community voting from October 16th-29th. Winners will be announced on Friday, October 30th. Five winners will each receive a $20 gift card to a local business in the following categories: most votes at Columbus Library, most votes at Saluda Library, most votes on Facebook, Staff Favorite, and a random drawing from all remaining entries.

Polk County Public Libraries has two libraries, Columbus Library and Saluda Library, with books, movies, music, audiobooks, and downloadable eBooks and audiobooks available for checkout, as well as public computers and wireless internet access. PCPL also offers regularly scheduled virtual and in-person programs for all ages. To learn more, visit www.polklibrary.org.