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Pioneer Memorial Library Celebrates 100 Years with Gala, Family Fun, and a Surprise Guest
- Kristina Hemel
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Pioneer Memorial Library in Colby is turning 100 years old, and the community is invited to celebrate a full century of stories, learning, and connection with two special events on March 13 and March 14.
Library Director Melany Wilks says reaching the century mark is a major milestone for the library and the community it serves.
“For 100 years we’ve been serving the public—providing books, community events, programming, and all kinds of resources for our local community,” Wilks said. “It’s exciting to celebrate something that has meant so much to Colby for so long.”
A Special Gala Friday Night
The celebration begins Friday, March 13, with a 100th Anniversary Gala at the library. The evening is designed as an adult-focused event where guests can relax, reflect on the library’s history, and enjoy a memorable night of music and conversation.
Tickets are $40 per person, and the evening includes beverages—both alcoholic and non-alcoholic—a charcuterie spread, and live music from world-famous classical guitarist Peter Fletcher.
Along with the entertainment, the evening will feature reflections on the library’s 100-year history, including photos and memories shared by those who have been part of the library’s journey.
Tickets are available at the library and can be purchased in person, by phone, or online.
Family Fun Day on Pi Day
The celebration continues Saturday, March 14, which happens to be Pi Day (3/14)—a perfect fit for a library named Pioneer Memorial Library… or PML… also known as “Pi-M-L.”
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the library will host a “Fun for All” Family Day filled with activities for kids and adults alike.
Every hour, visitors can enjoy pizza pie, tying in with the Pi Day theme. Kids can also participate in activities like:
Pie-in-the-face fun
A Pi Walk (similar to a cake walk)
Trivia games with prizes
Indoor giant games
A photo booth
An arcade bus outside the library
The Mystery Guest Everyone Will Be Talking About
One of the biggest highlights of the day will be a special surprise guest appearing from noon to 2 p.m.
Wilks says the guest is nationally recognized and represents teamwork, spirit, and a lot of fun—but the library is keeping the identity a secret.
Visitors who attend during that time will have the chance to meet the mystery guest and take photos.
The surprise appearance is expected to be one of the most exciting moments of the celebration.
A Century of Community
Beyond books, the Pioneer Memorial Library has grown into a true community hub. Today the library offers digital books, audiobooks, children’s programming, and even unique items available for checkout like activity kits and specialty cake pans.
Wilks says the goal has always been simple: serve the community in whatever way it needs.
“The library belongs to the public,” she said. “We’re here to help people learn, explore, and have fun.”
Event Details
100th Anniversary GalaFriday,
March 13Tickets:
$40Available at Pioneer Memorial Library
Call 785-460-4470
Family Fun Day – 100th Anniversary CelebrationSaturday,
March 1410 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Special Mystery Guest: Noon – 2 p.m.
Free and open to the public
More information can be found on the Pioneer Memorial Library Facebook page, website, or by calling the library.
After a century of serving Colby, the Pioneer Memorial Library is inviting the entire community to come celebrate—and maybe even take a pie to the face while doing it.