Backpacks, school supplies, and plenty of excitement filled the ALEEZE Convention Center on Sunday, August 9, 2026, as the Sint Maarten Library joined the Back 2 School Expo, organized by Xtratight Entertainment.
The event brought together students, parents, schools, and community organizations for a day focused on preparing for the new school year. For the Library, it was an opportunity to step beyond its walls, connect with the community, and introduce more families and young people to the services available at the Library. Library staff members D. Helligar, and D. Mathew York welcomed a steady stream of visitors to the booth throughout the day, with a strong number of new registrations and membership renewals recorded across various age groups. Just as valuable were the conversations at the booth, where visitors shared their interests and ideas; including more young adult Comics ( Anime) and homework spaces, expanded digital Collection, providing useful insight into how the Library can continue developing programs and services that respond to the needs of young people.
“Engaging with the youth and hearing their views was wonderful,” said D.Helligar, “What they shared with us will help the Library create programs that better reflect their interests and keep young people engaged with what we offer.” The strong turnout made the Back 2 School Expo a rewarding outreach opportunity, and the Sint Maarten Library thank Xtratight Entertainment for organizing the event and for providing a platform that allowed the Library to connect, engage, and promote the importance of reading and lifelong learning within the community. Registration continues at the Library.
Students, parents, teachers, and school staff can visit the main branch at W. A. J. Nisbeth Road #3 in Philipsburg to obtain a library card, renew a membership, or learn more about the Library& print and digital collections. The Library two satellite locations; at the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School in Cay Hill 2:30pm- 6:00pm and at the Belvedere Community Center 2:30pm-6:00pm, reopen on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, giving families across the island greater access to library services as the school year gets underway. The main branch is open Monday-Friday 9:00am- 5:00pm and Saturday 10:00am-1:00pm. For more information, call 1721-542-2970 or visit www.Library.sx.
