The Library will set two goals a year for each area, but the plan is designed to be flexible. “The focus areas won’t change, but each year we will outline new goals that continuously align to what our community needs,” said CPL Executive Director Will O’Hearn.
2026 goals
Goals for next year include expanding digital access, adding a meeting room at the downtown branch, increasing outreach to seniors, establishing new partnerships, and more. You can read the full plan online, which breaks down each goal in more detail.
2025 accomplishments
As for this year, the library has completed several goals, including going fine free, launching a Toy Library, and bringing its Pop-Up Library van to 281 events — boosting outreach by more than 60%.
Asked
Asked
How often do you use the Chattanooga Public Library?
A. At least once a week B. About once a month C. A few times a year D. It’s been a long time E. I’ve never been
The Mainx24 parade runs from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Photo courtesy of Caravan Tribe LLC
Chattanooga’s vibrant creative scene comes alive during MAINx24, a community-driven festival held annually on the first Saturday of December.
Now in its 18th year, the festival offers 100+ events in just 24 hours. A highlight is Chattanooga’s largest and wackiest parade, celebrating the Southside’s artistic spirit. Other events include a chili cook-off, vintage market, and multiple live music performances.
Head to the festival on Saturday, Dec. 6 + discover why it’s considered the best day of the year.
Keep an eye out for signage when you’re driving near the area circled in red. | Map via Google Maps
Traffic
A heads up for drivers: Buckley Street — between E 14th + 12th streets — is now a one-way on each side of the median. The east side is northbound, and the west side is southbound. Editor Sarah here:If you’re bad with directions like I am, just use caution + pay attention to the signs.
Civic
Northgate Mall’s makeover is moving forward. City Council approved a plan to let CBL Properties front the cost of major utility upgrades, with the city paying them back over time using future tax revenue. The mall’s full development plan is expected to be released early next year. (Chattanooga Times Free Press)
Watch
Get excited — the Lookout Wild Film Festival has released its trailer for 2026. The festival runs Thursday, Jan. 15 through Sunday, Jan. 18 at the Roland W. Hayes Concert Hall inside UTC’s Fine Arts Center. Tickets are on sale now. (The Pulse)
Holiday
The Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga is having a Community Chanukah Celebration on Sunday, Dec. 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the Jewish Cultural Center. There will be a community candle lighting, dinner, and family-friendly activities including donut decorating. Grab tickets online.
Outdoors
Look up. The December supermoon will appear today, Dec. 4, at 6:14 p.m., according to the Almanac. This occurs when the moon’s orbit gets closer to Earth, making the moon appear brighter than usual. This will be your last chance to see the cold moon before the year ends. (Time)
Ranked
Chattanooga is growing fast. According to the latest PODS Moving Trends Report, the Scenic City ranked No. 11 on the list of the country’s most moved-to cities in 2025. Fun fact: Chattanooga didn’t make the list last year, which shows how much it’s grown in just one year.
Number
$2. That’s what a Ruby Falls ticket cost nearly a century ago — and that’s how much some will pay on Tuesday, Dec. 30 for Discovery Day. The iconic underground waterfall was discovered 97 years ago, so 97 people will get $2 admission. Tickets go on sale Friday, Dec. 19 at 10 a.m.
Shop
If you’re a Costco shopper, you know about the $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Wait until you see number six.*
Finance
This just in: 6% is the new 2%. This card is every reward-seeker’s dream, offering up to 6% cash back in categories you’ll actually use. Bonus: You can get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2027. Learn more and apply.*
Category
Sports
Who will be the champion?
Thousands of fans are expected at Finley Stadium for the BlueCross Bowl. | Photo via Chattanooga Tourism Co.
The state’s top high school football teams are in Chattanooga this week for the 2025 BlueCross Bowl, kicking off today, Dec. 4, and running through Saturday, Dec. 6 at Finley Stadium.
🏈 The lineup
Eighteen teams will take the field for nine championship games — including some hometown talent. Baylor School takes on Brentwood Academy tonight at 7 p.m., and regional teams Marion County and South Pittsburg are also in the mix. Check out the full schedule for all the matchups.
🎟️ If you go
Tickets are $15 online (plus fees), and you can level up with access to the Dr. Pepper Lounge, which comes with food, non-alcoholic drinks, and games. Bonus: Check out Finley Stadium’s new amenities including a calming room, nursing room, and first aid station.
💰 Big picture
This is the fifth year Chattanooga Tourism Co. and the TSSAA have teamed up to bring the BlueCross Bowl to the Scenic City. It’s expected to generate a $3.9 million economic boost.
The Buy
Discover clever, useful tech that solves everyday problems in this guide to 2025’s coolest gadgets. We’re talking a small but mighty home security upgrade, a power bank the size of a credit card, and more.
Move over, Oatmeal Creme Pie — there’s a new Chattanooga-born sweetie in town. Little Debbie is rolling out the Banana Puddin’ Creme Pie next month, and honestly, we’re already clearing pantry space. It’s banana-flavored creme wedged between two soft vanilla cookies. Would you try it? Let us know.
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