Bloomington Library rolling out summer programs

Posted on May 23, 2024
Anyone who wishes to partake can find reading logs at the Bloomington Library, anywhere on the Bookmobile’s route, or printed from home here. (WJBC File Photo)

By WMBD-TV

BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington Public Library is rolling out the red carpet for all its free summer programs starting on May 28.

According to a Bloomington Public Library news release, anyone can participate in the Summer Reading Program, ranging from kids who can’t yet read independently to adults.

Anyone who wishes to partake can find reading logs at the Bloomington Library, anywhere on the Bookmobile’s route, or printed from home here.

Other programs on the docket for kids this summer include an endangered animal scavenger hunt, The Conductors (a play), Summer Chess Club, story times, Didgeridoo Down Under, a story time at the Farmers’ Market, a Juneteenth celebration with author Janice Harrington, Adventures of an Aluminum Can with the Ecology Action Center, recycled crafts, a Boxes & Bubble Wrap Bash, and a StoryWalk during the David Davis Mansion’s Glorious Garden Festival.

Teens will be able to access Fresco, a graphic art illustration software in addition to several hands-on projects including upcycled fabric pendants, suntracking flowerbots, lighted-LED festival lanterns, and 3D-printed windspinners. If the teens reach their reading goal of 5,000 hours, there will be an exclusive teens-only party to wrap up the Summer Reading Program.

Adults have seven different book clubs to choose from including, Let’s Dish! Cookbook Club, programs about historic traditions at Illinois State University, hunting the I-70 serial killer, and meditation for a more balanced life.

For all ages, there will be a Pride in the Park Celebration and a Jigsaw Puzzle Swap.

To wrap up the festivities, a ribbon cutting for the expanded and renovated library will be held August 1 at 11:30 a.m. with a proper party to take place on August 3 at 10 a.m. featuring children’s performers, food trucks, a bounce house, photo opportunities, Innovation Lab demonstrations, Recording Studio demonstrations, and tours.

Important dates can be found below:

  • Summer Reading: Tuesday, May 28-Monday, July 29
  • Prize Distribution: Monday, June 10-Monday, July 29
  • Prize Drawings for Teens and Adults: Tuesday, July 30
  • End of Summer Reading Party for Teens (if earned) Friday, August 2

WMBD-TV can be reached at [email protected].

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