The Waynesboro Public Library is located just three miles from the Appalachian Trail, placing us in a unique position to support thru-hikers traveling the nearly 2,200-mile route from Georgia to Maine. The trail passes through 14 states and some of the country’s most scenic parks, bringing thousands of hikers through the region each year. In Waynesboro, those numbers grow during the spring and fall, when foot traffic increases during peak hiking seasons. As part of a designated Appalachian Trail Community, Waynesboro has taken active steps to support these visitors, and the library is part of that community-wide effort.
Hikers’ Corner
Four years ago, we established the Hikers’ Corner through a donation from the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association (ALDHA) and Friends of the Library. This space was created to support hikers passing through town by providing access to essential supplies and a place to recharge before returning to the trail. The Hikers’ Corner is supported in part by donations from ALDHA, the Friends of the Library, and local community members. A recent grant from the Youth Philosophy Council also helps us continue offering a wide range of supplies. We regularly stock items to meet hikers’ needs, including:
- Hygiene products: toothbrush and toothpaste kits, shampoo and conditioner, bar soap, feminine hygiene items, laundry detergent pods, and hand sanitizer
- First aid supplies: band-aids, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, and moleskin
- Trail essentials: sewing kits, zip ties, waterproofing spray, sunscreen, paracord, and more
All supplies are organized in labeled bins on shelves in a corner of the library and are freely available during open hours. Nearby tables and chairs offer a place to repack gear, charge devices, and take a break.
The corner also includes information from the Waynesboro Tourism Department, including a list of local trail angels (community members who volunteer rides) and printed guides for hikers visiting the city. These guides highlight dining options, entertainment, laundromats, and other local resources.
In addition to supplies and information, the Hikers’ Corner features:
- A small area with free books
- A donation bin for hikers
- A community trail journal, where hikers leave reflections, tips, encouragement, or record their trail names
Appalachian Trail Campsite Permits
The library is also one of three locations in Waynesboro, along with the Tourism Department and the YMCA, where hikers can receive a free three-day, two-night camping permit for the city’s designated hiker campground. Coordinated by the Waynesboro Parks and Recreation Department, this service provides access to a safe, permitted camping space during their stay. Library staff verify hiker information, issue the permit, and provide wristbands for display at the campsite. We also offer a local visitor map with helpful location information.
Beyond the Hiking Season
While the Hikers’ Corner was created with Appalachian Trail hikers in mind, its impact extends beyond hiking season. We keep supplies stocked year-round, not only for off-season hikers but also for community members, including those experiencing housing insecurity.
Items like foil blankets and hand warmers are especially useful in colder months. We maintain the space and monitor inventory throughout the year to ensure it remains accessible to anyone who needs it, recognizing that essential needs in our community don’t pause when hiker traffic does.
–Emily Shultz, Adult Services Librarian, Waynesboro Public Library
