I am new to this group

Welcome!

Is anyone involved in programs like this or have experience? Would there be any demand from the general public if it was a program proposal done through a public library as an in-person event?

My opinion on demand is that it's negligible, because most people:

1. Use their phones for computing
2. Are entirely unaware of Linux
3. If they've heard of Linux, they think it's for expert users

So, the best way to attract new users is not by saying, "Come and learn Linux" or via install fests.

It's setting up a computer in a prominent location, with lots of monitors and / or a giant monitor, installing KDE, turning the eye candy up to max, and just play around with desktop cube, presentation mode, wobbly windows, "dodge" feature (where windows slide around and behind each other when focus changes), that stuff.

It'll get people to stop and pay attention for a moment, maybe ask what the heck they're looking at.

THEN there's a chance to introduce all the useful features to them, answer any questions they have, let them test drive it...

FreeGeek Toronto had this program as well more recently: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/install-linux-on-an-old-computer-tickets-1669753199769 and I wonder how that went.   

I'm curious too. It feels like install fests are so 1990s.

Who's going to bring in their computer for some random guys to install some unfamiliar OS on it when it contains all their files and the OS their familiar with (even if it annoys the heck out of them)?

And anyone with the knowledge and interest in trying Linux can use the gazillion online resources to accomplish that.

Granted they may want some hand-holding or advice on which of these "distros" to choose...

I wouldn't discourage anyone from trying outreach programs, but my method would be to be as eye-catching as possible then discuss the useful stuff.