Angie Reinoehl/PCT The director of Heart of America Library, Mandie Medalen, stands next to the donation area for its annual back to school drive. Supplies can be dropped off through Friday, Aug. 16.

The Heart of America Library is gearing up for the 2024-2025 school year with two of its last big summer events. The annual school supply drive and the We All Read for Ice Cream reading challenge are supporting students’ transitions back to the classroom.

The supply drive is accepting donations through Friday, Aug.16, and will benefit Ely Elementary, Little Flower School and Rugby High School.

“It’s important in my opinion because teachers don’t always have everything that they need to have a productive and well run classroom … It’s just something to give back, to help them out because they’re really spending a good chunk of their day with our kids. So let’s help them out as much as we can,” said Mandie Medalen, director of Heart of America Library.

Last year’s school supply drive was held on one day and saw an overwhelming response from the community. This year, they decided to hold the event over two weeks.

The We All Read for Ice Cream reading challenge is open to readers of all ages. Participants can pick up a log sheet from the library and color in ice cream cones as they finish their books. After logging 10 books, participants are rewarded with an ice cream token which can be cashed in at a local restaurant.

“Everybody needs an ice cream cone sometimes … It’s hot and we’re excited for school to start but let’s try to hang on to summer a little bit longer,” Medalen said.

Donations for the school supply drive can be dropped off at the Heart of America Library at 201 3rd St. SW, Rugby. Supplies needed include but are not limited to pencils, crayons, markers, colored pencils, highlighters, disinfecting wipes, facial tissues, notebooks, gym shoes and milk money. Contact the library for the full list of supplies.