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Kent County Parks Partners with Kent District Library to Bring the Magic of Books and Nature Together
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (June 4, 2026) — The Kent County Parks Department is excited to continue its partnership with Kent District Library (KDL) this summer, bringing families opportunities to explore, read, and learn in select parks throughout Kent County. Through KDL’s Summer Wonder 2026 program, visitors can enjoy interactive scavenger hunts, outdoor storytimes, bookmobile visits, and StoryWalk experiences that connect literacy with recreation.
“Summer Wonder is all about inspiring curiosity and learning for all ages," said Caleb Perkins, Community Engagement Librarian at Kent District Library. "By partnering with Kent County Parks, we're able to bring reading beyond library walls and create experiences that encourage exploration, imagination, and appreciation of the outdoors.”
Here's a list of activities families can enjoy through this partnership:
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Find Curi's Favorite Things Scavenger Hunt: Families can search for clues and discover Curi’s favorite things at ten Kent County park locations. The self-guided adventure encourages exploration of trails, natural areas, and park amenities while completing the Summer Wonder challenge.
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Outdoor Storytime at Millennium Park: Join KDL librarians for stories, songs, rhymes, and movement activities in the great outdoors every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. from June 4 through August 6. Families are encouraged to stay and enjoy the park after each program.
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KDL Bookmobile Visits: The KDL Bookmobile will make appearances at Kent County parks throughout the summer, offering opportunities to sign up for library cards, check out materials, learn more about Summer Wonder, and participate in special events, including foam parties.
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StoryWalks in Kent County Parks: Families can enjoy reading a story one page at a time while walking through select Kent County parks, combining literacy, physical activity, and outdoor exploration.
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Read for Trees: Summer Wonder participants can help support tree planting efforts while building healthy reading habits through KDL’s reading challenge.
As an added benefit, children who register for either KDL’s Summer Wonder program or the Grand Rapids Public Library Summer Reading Challenge will receive a free family day pass to Millennium Park Beach.
“Parks are more than places to play—they're places where people can learn, explore, and create lasting memories," said Ben Swayze, Kent County Parks Department Director. "Our partnership with Kent District Library gives families new opportunities to engage with reading while enjoying some of the best outdoor spaces in Kent County.”
To learn more about Summer Wonder activities in Kent County Parks, including event schedules and participating locations, please visit the Kent District Library website.
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