Introduction
We may be in the throes of Spring, but Summer is just around the corner, which means that the time for program planning is now!
Summer is the perfect time for libraries to connect with their communities in fun, creative ways. With school out and longer days ahead, libraries can offer programs that encourage exploration, learning, and a lifelong love of reading. Whether you’re planning for kids, teens, adults, or families, here are some fresh ideas to inspire your summer programming lineup.
Adventure-Themed Reading Challenges
Take your traditional summer reading program to the next level with an adventurous twist. Create themed “quests” like a pirate treasure hunt, jungle exploration, or intergalactic journey. Participants can earn badges, prizes, or certificates as they complete reading goals and activities. Many public libraries will reach out to the community for raffle items, so that readers can earn tickets as they read!
Outdoor Storytimes and Nature Walks
Bring storytime outside! Partner with local parks, gardens, or even set up on the library lawn. Combine read-aloud sessions with nature walks, scavenger hunts, or simple outdoor crafts using found materials, such as leaves, flowers, and twigs.
Creative STEAM Workshops
Summer is a great time to tap into kids’ creativity and curiosity with hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) workshops. Ideas include:
• Build your own rocket ships
• Coding clubs or app design for beginners
• Art with recycled materials
• DIY slime or kitchen science experiments
Summer Camp-Style Activities
Host “mini-camps” that run for a few days or weekly sessions. Themes could include:
• Magic and Wizardry (with potion-making and magical creature studies!)
• Eco-Camp with sustainable crafts and gardening
Book Tastings and Genre Samplers
Set up a “book café” where readers can sample different genres by reading the first chapter of various books. Offer a “menu” of genres like fantasy, mystery, adventure, graphic novels, and nonfiction. Encourage participants to try something new and check out a book outside their usual favorites!
Library After Dark: Evening Events
Invite teens and adults for special after-hours events like:
• Trivia Nights
• Murder Mystery Parties
• Outdoor Movie Nights under the stars
Community Connection Days
Celebrate your local heroes and talents! Host meet-and-greet sessions with:
• Firefighters and police officers
• Local authors and illustrators
• Gardeners and environmentalists
• Artists, dancers, or musicians
You can also organize volunteer days to give back to the community through clean-up projects or donation drives.
Wellness and Mindfulness Series
Summer is also about relaxation! Offer programs that support mental and physical health, such as:
• Family yoga classes
• Guided meditation sessions
• Journaling workshops
• Healthy cooking demos
Summer Art Exhibits and Talent Shows
Let your patrons shine! Host an art show featuring community artwork or an open mic/talent night for poetry readings, musical performances, and storytelling. Offer simple “maker” stations where participants can create art to add to a collaborative mural or exhibit.
Conclusion
To make your summer programming even more successful, don’t forget to weave in a bit of flexibility. Offer a mix of drop-in programs and registration-based events, and provide virtual or hybrid options when possible to reach everyone in your community.
About Surpass Software
Surpass is the easy-to-use, cloud-based library management system for libraries of all types and sizes. Whether you’re a school, church, museum, business, or any other organization with resources to lend, Surpass is likely a good fit for you. We pride ourselves on being affordable and flexible, with an expert support team ready to help you at a moment’s notice.
Schedule a free demo to see Surpass in action.
