Ocean County families have a fun — and free — opportunity to get ready for Halloween. The Toms River, Lakewood, Plumsted, and Tuckerton Branches of the Ocean County Library system are hosting a Kids Costume Collection & Giveaway throughout September, helping local children enjoy a magical, budget‑friendly Halloween.

🎃 Costume Collection: September 1–30, 2026

Parents are encouraged to donate gently used kids’ costumes (sizes for ages up to 11) that their children have outgrown. All four participating branches will accept donations during normal operating hours:

• Toms River Branch https://theoceancountylibrary.org/locations/toms-river
• Lakewood Branch https://theoceancountylibrary.org/locations/lakewood
• Plumsted Branch https://theoceancountylibrary.org/locations/plumsted
• Tuckerton Branch https://theoceancountylibrary.org/locations/tuckerton

This community-driven effort helps families save money while making sure every child has a chance to dress up, imagine, and celebrate.

🧙‍♂️🧛‍♂️🦸‍♀️ Free Costume Giveaway at FanNation: The Geekstravaganza

All donated costumes will be given away for free at FanNation: The Geekstravaganza on:

📅 Saturday, October 3, 2026

📍 Ocean County Library – Toms River Branch

Event info: https://theoceancountylibrary.org/fannation

FanNation is one of Ocean County’s biggest fandom events, featuring cosplay, comics, gaming, crafts, and family-friendly entertainment — making it the perfect place for kids to pick out their new costume.

💬 Why It Matters

This initiative supports local families, encourages recycling and reuse, and ensures every child can enjoy the excitement of dressing up — whether for Halloween, FanNation, or imaginative play at home.

If you have costumes your kids no longer wear, this is a great way to give them a second life and brighten another child’s day.

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