“Color Our World celebrates the enriching power of art in our lives,” youth library assistant Cassidy Herrera said. “Our library invites the community to explore self-expression, make connections and experience the joy of creating.”
From babies to grandparents, the library’s summer schedule is designed for all ages to promote learning and growth. Whether attending a baby storytime, a teen craft night or a board game event with the whole family, there’s a program for everyone, and it won’t cost a thing.
Across the library, everyone plays a part in the programming success. Leah Mayo, Sarah Habeeb and Herrera spent weeks planning and organizing the design and décor. For adult programming, Caren Creech leads Lattes at the Library and Herrera works alongside Constance Keremes as the pair ensures success of all the children's programming.
“All programs are free and open to the public, regardless of residency or library membership,” Herrera said. “This ensures that anyone, whether they live in [Kendall] County or are just visiting, can join in the fun and feel welcome.”
Youth Summer Reading Challenge
Reading becomes a game during the youth summer reading challenge. Children complete fun tasks, such as reading outside or trying a new genre, on their challenge sheets. Every Friday, completed sheets can be turned in for a chance to win prizes, including science kits, games and plush toys.
Older kids and teens have even more ways to track their progress.
“For every book read, participants get to add a ribbon to their personal reading ring that corresponds to the challenge that they completed, transforming their reading journey into something tangible and expressive,” said Mayo, young adult and outreach services coordinator. “Ultimately, these creative elements turn reading into a fully immersive experience that resonates with the readers.”
Early Childhood Programs
Early childhood programs are vibrant, playful and purposeful. Weekly petting zoo visits, toddler culinary sessions and baby storytimes are just a few of the options designed to help little ones grow.
“Colorful Critters, our weekly petting zoo, helps children build sensory awareness, empathy and language skills as they meet and learn about a variety of friendly animals,” Herrera said. “In Colorful Culinary Creations, little ones explore new snacks while developing fine motor skills and being introduced to early math and science concepts. PeeWee Pinspirations, our monthly family craft class, invites kids and caregivers to create together, encouraging creativity, coordination and quality bonding time.”
The library also collaborates with local professionals to deepen its impact.
“These partnerships allow the library to host workshops, storytimes and classes led by skilled professionals, ensuring families have access to trusted information, hands-on learning experiences and meaningful support that extends beyond traditional library services,” Herrera said.
Teen and Adult Programs
Teens and adults get their own summer lineup, including library lattes, game tournaments and chalk festivals meant to spark lifelong learning.
“With our summer programming, we hope to inspire participants to try something new and feel connected to a community that values growth, creativity and play in a joyful, low-pressure environment,” Mayo said.
Additionally, if people have family tapes or photos collecting dust, the library has recently launched a new chapter in its story, with a goal of preserving home-grown history for future generations.
“Our Public Memory Lab has become a vital community resource that empowers patrons to preserve their personal and local history,” Mayo said. “By offering this service free of charge in a public space, we remove economic and technological barriers that often prevent people from preserving their history.”
How can you join in?
This summer, Patrick Heath Public Library invites everyone to add a splash of color to their lives–one story, one connection and one creation at a time.
Visit www.boernelibrary.org to view their calendar of events today.
The above story was produced by Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
