Teens and tweens at the Vinton Library hosted a “Hero Appreciation Day” reception to honor local police, fire, and EMS first responders on September 11. That date marked the 16th anniversary of 9-11and was observed around the nation.

There were “thank yous” for the heroes, along with snacks and the invitation to enter the space only high school and middle school students have access to at the library for some games and fellowship.

Teresa Nuar, the Roanoke County Public Library Young Adult Divisional Librarian, said that the officers who attended “had a blast with the teens playing Mario Kart and Super Smash Brothers. They all had so much fun!”