🌞 Summer Reading Program 2026
Unearth a Story
This summer, adventure is just beneath the surface. Join us as we dig into great books, uncover new interests, and discover stories waiting to be found.
The 2026 Summer Reading Program invites readers of all ages to explore, imagine, and grow through reading. Whether you enjoy mysteries, nature tales, history, fantasy, or hands-on learning, there’s something here for everyone.
📖 What Is the Summer Reading Program?
The Summer Reading Program is a free, community-wide celebration of reading designed to keep minds active and curious all summer long. Participants can:
- • Track their reading
- • Attend fun events and activities
- • Earn small prizes and incentives
- • Discover new authors and subjects
- • Connect with neighbors and friends
You can read whatever you like—books, audiobooks, graphic novels, magazines, or e-books. Every page counts!
🗓️ Program Details
Elizabeth B. Pert Library Summer Reading & Special Events Calendar 2026 (Programs are at the Hector Library unless otherwise noted)
Tuesday, June 30 — Disney Music Bingo Afternoon (Summer Reading Program Kickoff) — 3:00 PM
Tuesday, July 7 — “Dino” Dig Jewelry — 3:00 PM
Wednesday, July 8 — Library at the Lake: Big Dance StoryWalk & Nature Mobile Craft — Smith Park — 1:30 PM — Ages 4–14
Tuesday, July 14 — Moreland the Magician — 3:00 PM
Wednesday, July 15 — Library at the Lake: Big Dance StoryWalk & Rock Painting — Smith Park — 1:30 PM — Ages 4–14
Tuesday, July 21 — Paint Like a Caveman — 3:00 PM
Tuesday, July 21 — Paint Like Pollack (Teen & Adult Event) — 6:00 PM
Wednesday, July 22 — Library at the Lake: Friendly Fright StoryWalk & Bug Leaf Art — Smith Park — 1:30 PM — Ages 4–14
Thursday, July 23 — Tie Dye with Gwen (Teen & Adult Event) — Montour Falls Library — 6:00 PM
Tuesday, July 28 — “Dino” Mud Pudding — 3:00 PM
Wednesday, July 29 — Library at the Lake: Friendly Fright StoryWalk & Clay Day — Smith Park — 1:30 PM — Ages 4–14
Tuesday, August 5 — Pop! Book About Bubbles & Bird Feeder — 3:00 PM
Saturday, August 8 — Saturday Nite Pride for Teens: DIY Eyespy Craft — Montour Falls Library — 5:00 PM–7:00 PM
Tuesday, August 11 — Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes — 3:00 PM
Thursday, August 13 — Summer Reading Club Party — Montour Falls Fairgrounds
🧭 What to Expect This Summer
Think of this program as a treasure hunt for stories. Throughout the summer, we’ll offer:
- • Storytimes and special guest programs
- • Hands-on activities and crafts
- • Reading challenges and milestones
- • Community events and family-friendly fun
- • Opportunities to explore new topics and interests
Whether you read one book or twenty, you’re part of the adventure.
🌱 Why Participate?
Reading over the summer helps children stay sharp, builds confidence, and sparks imagination—but it’s not just for kids. Summer reading is for anyone who enjoys learning, relaxing with a good book, or trying something new.
It’s also a wonderful way to stay connected to your community.
📌 How to Get Started
- Visit the library to fill out the registration, print and return the registration to the library or email the registration to hectorlibrary@gmail.com
- Pick up your reading log (we will hand these out at the Disney Music Bingo on June 30th)
- Start reading
- Celebrate your progress along the way
We can’t wait to see what stories you uncover.