The ICPL Summer Reading Program has begun, but there’s still so much time left to register and begin your reading adventure! All ages can register to receive a game card to track their summer reading goals and receive a prize at the library or bookmobile. The goal for kids is to read 20 books this summer, and then, depending on their age, they can receive a free book, a T-shirt, or stuffed animal, plus a pass to the Iowa Children’s Museum and the Blank Park Zoo! The summer is the busiest time of year at the Library, so we offer fun and educational programming for all ages every single day! Check out our digital program guide to find out all about programming for kids, tweens, teens, and adults! The reading challenge goes through August 10, so be sure to get signed up and get reading!
Tuesday, July 23, from 9 a.m. to Noon Johnson County Fairgrounds, 4261 Oak Crest Hill Rd SE
Come check out the Johnson County Fair! Tuesday is Kids Day at the fair when all the 4-H projects are shown. Bring the whole family for fun, food, and farm animals, and while you’re there, visit the Iowa City Public Library and other fabulous Johnson County Library representatives. Stop by to make a library card on the ICPL Bookmobile, check out an item, make a craft, or simply say hi!
Thursday, August 1, from 10 a.m. to Noon Chauncey Swan
All good things must come to an end, but that doesn’t mean we can’t go out with a splash…or blast! Join us in the Chauncey Swan outdoor area to play with bubbles, experience a mega foam blaster party, and other fun, messy, and wet games and activities. The Iowa City Fire Department will be there with fire safety activities as well! Be sure to bring towels and waterproof clothing to play!
And don't forget to join us for our final summer celebration at the Iowa City Public Library LibCon the following Saturday, August 10!
Guests for July: Tippi Toes and the Family Folk Machine Tippi Toes July 15, 17, 19 Family Folk Machine - July 29, 31, August 2
Join us for Stories in the Park all summer long! This summer there is a new Stories in the Park time at 9:30 a.m. to beat the midmorning heat! We are at Willow Creek Park on Mondays, Wetherby Park on Wednesdays, and Mercer Park on Fridays. The ICPL Bookmobile is on site and open for checkout before, during, and after Storytime. Library cards can be issued and updated. In the event of rain, the program will be canceled but the Bookmobile will still be on site.
In July we are excited to host two special performers for Stories in the Park! During the third week of July, catch Tippi Toes at all three parks! Tippi Toes offers a unique program of dance and creative movement suitable for even the youngest of toddlers! The last week of July, we will host Family Folk Machine at all three locations. The Family Folk Machine is a nonprofit, intergenerational, non-auditioned choir that welcomes kids and adults of all ages and backgrounds to sing together with a band.
The summer has just begun, and we have tons of fun programs planned for July! All Abilities Club is intended for people of all ages who are neurodivergent or who experience intellectual or developmental disabilities. Join us for inclusive fun with smaller crowds, lower lighting, and a casual, laid-back atmosphere. Anyone who benefits from this alternative setting is welcome to join!
Frosting and sprinkle choices will allow you to create a custom cookie to your taste! Then join in at craft stations including button making, beaded bracelet making, and more.
Local residents of the Blank Park Zoo will make an appearance, and a zoo expert will tell us about the animals and answer any questions you have. Stop by Meeting Room A at 11 a.m. to meet and get to know a few of the animals from this wonderful zoo in Des Moines. This is an encore event for individuals who are neurodivergent and their families to enjoy the program together in a neutral environment.
You've just been recruited as a backup dancer for Taylor Swift's new tour! Professional dance instructor Miss Liz from Life's Your Stage Dance Company will teach you new choreography for one of Taylor's most popular songs to prepare you for your role on stage.
