By Sunni Battin 

This year’s Summer Reading Program at the Powell Memorial Library is celebrating vibrancy in all forms, with the theme, “Color Our World” for all ages and offering a variety of rewards. 

 “Whether it’s through art, storytelling, or hands-on activities, the theme invites participants to engage with the world around them in vibrant, meaningful ways. It’s all about discovering how books and ideas can add color to our lives,” said Librarian Valerie Levy. 

 The program’s intent is to encourage reading among kids, teens, and adults during the summer months. Levy says “it’s a fun way to connect with books, the library, and the community.” The summer reading program runs from June 2-Aug. 8. For the programming aspect, there is a blend of reading challenges, drop-in activities, and special events. For 2025, there will be some changes to the program including adjustment of some of the age group categories to more effectively match the needs of participants as well as increasing the frequency of adult and teen gift card giveaways to be held weekly. 

 “We’ve also added more family-friendly programs to the calendar, making it easier for households with children of different ages to participate together. These updates reflect our ongoing commitment to making the program more inclusive, engaging, and rewarding for everyone,” Levy said. 

 Highlights of some of the programming include Baby Rave for ages 0-2 on

July 14 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. This high-energy program brings the music and movements with lights, dancing, and playful props for an extra thrilling experience. For early childhood ages, there are storytimes to help with early literacy development and offer an enjoyable and social experience for children and caregivers. Art Lab held on Tuesdays in June from 1:00-2:00 p.m. is ideal for elementary age kids that are interested in art techniques ranging from watercolor to printmaking. 

Teens will have the ability to let their creative imaginations fly with Food Art Sculptures on July 10 and July 17 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Participants will sculpt favorite foods utilizing air-dry clay. Families too can get in on the summer fun with Bluey Bash on June 6 from 10-11:30 a.m. There will be themed games, crafts, and activities plus the opportunity to take a photo with Bluey. 

For the organized and creative, there is the opportunity to share mini presentations and connect with others at the adult PowerPoint Party. Another highlight of the summer is Life-Size Candy Land on June 10 from 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. for all ages. 

Giveaways for the babies and toddlers during the Summer Reading Program include shaky eggs, balls, stickers, scarves, bells, rubber ducks, finger puppets, sidewalk chalk, and bubbles. Croc charm bracelets and charms for each goal achieved, free food coupons donated from area businesses, and an invitation to the private pool party are the rewards for children (age 3-Completed Grade 4).  The rewards for adults and teens involve getting get raffle tickets for gift cards.

In order to get started, registration is needed. Levy says registration is not only helpful to staff in making sure there are enough supplies such as materials and prizes but also when signing up, readers will get a reading log for their age group in which they can set up goals, monitor progress, and earn fun rewards. 

 “Registration also helps us better understand the reach and impact of the program,” she said. “By tracking how many people participate we can demonstrate the impact of summer reading to our community and continue growing the program year after year.”

For many libraries, the Summer Reading Program has been a tradition that has carried on from generation to generation to generation. In addition to reading throughout the summer, the program can expand one’s knowledge and vocabulary, improve concentration, and enhance interpersonal skills. 

“Events bring families, friends, and neighbors together to celebrate stories, share experiences, and learn side-by-side,” Levy said. “Whether it’s a storytime, an art activity, or an adult Bingo night, the Summer Reading Program creates spaces where people connect and feel a sense of belonging. These shared experiences strengthen our community, spark conversations, and show that learning is fun.”

For more information about the Summer Reading Program : Call the Powell Memorial Library at 

636-462-4874 or visit pml.troy.k12.mo.us