The Library concluded our 2021 Summer Reading Program, Tails & Tales, on Saturday, July 10th after six weeks of exciting programming, fun activities, and reading experiences all about animals. Over 100 youth participants and their families took part in Summer Reading this year and we are grateful for their enthusiasm and support.
This year, we hosted weekly programming for each age group. Our STEM program for Middles ages 6-12 was a massive hit, bringing dozens of participants each week. We learned about animal folklore, bird species of Montana, woodland creatures, food chains, global habitats, and signs of animals in the wild. Teen Time brought out our creative sides. We made marbled mugs, decorated tote bags, and took part in creative writing exercises together. Books & Babies and PreK/Kinder Storytime offered singing, books, and crafts all about animals to our littlest patrons. Storytime programs will continue weekly after Summer Reading concludes with Books & Babies (ages 0-2 and caregivers) on Fridays at 10:30 am and PreK/Kinder Storytime (ages 3-6) on Saturdays at 11 am.
In addition to weekly programming, several other activities got patrons outdoors and into the community while they participated in Summer Reading. The Lewistown Birding Bunch led a group of budding birders on an exciting birdwatching adventure on a gorgeous day at Brewery Flats. The Library’s traveling piranha visited several locations in Lewistown, including Six 18 Coffee, the Labyrinth at Frank Day Park, the Lewistown Art Center, the Chamber of Commerce, and Creekside Pavilion. Our Storywalk graced the lawns of the Fergus County Courthouse, displaying the book “What Do You Do with a Tail Like This?” by Steve Jenkins. Finally, the scavenger hunt for the Summer Reading angler fish encouraged patrons to explore new parts of the Library building.
Much thanks is due to the Lewistown Birding Bunch, Main Street Treats, Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks, the Library staff, and of course, our amazing patrons for allowing us to bring the magic of the Summer Reading Program to our community. Stay tuned for more youth programs to resume this fall.
