Summer Library Program Begins June 5

We invite everyone across North Central Washington to take part in our free annual Summer Library Program beginning June 5, with programs, activities, and reading opportunities for all ages at 30 libraries, the community bookmobile, and online.

This year’s theme, “Plant a Seed, Read,” celebrates the ways libraries help communities grow. Just as gardens and farms nourish our bodies, libraries nourish minds and communities by creating opportunities for creativity, curiosity, and connection.

Throughout the summer, we will offer reading challenges, activities, performances, and events designed to support literacy and lifelong learning while bringing people together in welcoming community spaces.

Participants can register beginning June 5 at any NCW Libraries location, on the community bookmobile, or online at www.ncwlibraries.org/slp/.

Children and teens who register in person at any NCW Libraries branch location will receive activity materials to encourage reading and exploration throughout the summer, along with opportunities to earn prizes and raffle entries. Adults can participate through a reading and activity themed bingo challenge.

The program is also available online through Beanstack, where participants can track reading, complete virtual activities, and earn digital badges and raffle entries for prizes.

Each branch library location will host local summer events reflecting the interests of their communities. Programs this year will include art and maker activities, STEM programs, gardening and nature-based learning, cultural programs, music, storytimes, and intergenerational events.

Featured community programs include beading circles at the Grand Coulee Library, Kids in the Garden at the Waterville Library, Folkloric dance lessons at the Peshastin Library, Summer Makers Club at the Curlew Library, reading visits with seniors at the Leavenworth Library, candle making at the Mattawa Library, and more.

Additionally, NCW Libraries will be partnering with Oregon Humanities to offer a virtual series of community conversations around the topic of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. And the summer program will also feature special performances across the region in June by Hula Hoop with Hillia Hula and Magician Jeff Evans.

Virtual Series

The virtual programs — part of Oregon Humanities’ Beyond 250 series exploring democracy, freedom, and what it means to be an American, today and into the future — include:

June 16: What Does Freedom Depend On?

July 16: To What Do We Pledge?

Aug. 13: What Does It Mean To Be American