For one special night each year, Johnson County Library closes its doors to the public and reopens them for an unforgettable celebration.
Library Lets Loose is Johnson County Library’s signature fundraising event, transforming the Library into an immersive evening of fun, philanthropy, and community impact. This year, guests will step back into the world of ’80s movies for a night filled with nostalgic experiences, multiple photo opportunities with your favorite props and characters, blockbuster entertainment, delicious food and drinks, and opportunities to support the Library’s mission.
Adding to this year’s excitement, Saturday Night Live alum Heidi Gardner will serve as the event’s honorary host, bringing her own star power to an evening designed to celebrate creativity, community, and the power of the Library.
Guests can explore the Library in a whole new way while enjoying movie-inspired experiences, live entertainment, interactive activities, a silent auction, the Golden Ticket raffle, and more.
Every ticket purchased helps fund programs, services, and resources that benefit all 14 Johnson County Library locations and the thousands of people who rely on them each day.
Support from Library Lets Loose expands access to lifelong learning opportunities, early literacy programs, technology resources, community engagement initiatives, and innovative services that strengthen neighborhoods across Johnson County. It also allows the Library to respond to emerging needs and invest in programs that make the Library more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
Bonnie and Chris Limbird, co-chairs for this event, describe the importance of community support. “Library Lets Loose is a fun way to help keep services running and growing as the community grows and changes. It’s important to support local libraries however you can, through your time, talents, or treasure. We hope that you will join us this year at what is sure to be an amazing night!”
Whether you’re a lifelong Library supporter or discovering Johnson County Library for the first time, Library Lets Loose offers the chance to celebrate community while making a lasting difference.
Join us on Saturday, September 19, for Library Lets Loose 2026. With a fun ’80s movie theme, great food and drinks, exclusive auction experiences, and a Library transformed after hours, you won’t want to miss it.
Library Lets Loose: ’80s Movies Edition
Saturday, September 19, 2026
6:30–10 p.m.
Central Resource Library
9875 W 87th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
Learn more, purchase tickets, and be part of this year’s blockbuster celebration at www.LibraryLetsLoose.org.
