Dallas Public Library Kicks Off SMART Summer with Free Family Events Across the City

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2026 Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 26, 2026

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Jocelyn McCray, Public Information Coordinator
Dallas Public Library
jocelyn.mccray@dallas.gov

Dallas Public Library Kicks Off SMART Summer with Free Family Events Across the City

DALLAS - Dallas Public Library’s annual reading and learning program, SMART Summer, kicks off May 30 with free events, activities and reading challenges designed to keep children and families engaged all summer long.

Enrollees can enjoy free science, math, art, reading and technology programs at all Dallas Public Library locations through August 8. Activities include interactive science programs, live animal presentations, magic shows and other hands-on learning experiences.

Participants of all ages can track reading and learning activities throughout the summer for chances to win prizes, including books, board games and a Nintendo Switch.

“SMART Summer helps families turn learning into an adventure,” said Manya Shorr, director of Dallas Public Library. “Whether kids are reading or exploring, they’re building confidence and discovering new interests in a fun and welcoming environment.”

Families are invited to celebrate the start of SMART Summer at one of the library’s kickoff parties on Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to noon at Lochwood, Fretz Park, Martin Luther King, Jr., North Oak Cliff and Pleasant Grove branch libraries. Attendees can enjoy games, crafts, giveaways and free books.

“The Friends of the Dallas Public Library is proud to support this citywide reading and learning initiative,” said Denise McGovern, executive director of the Friends. “We know the residents of Dallas rely upon and love their libraries. SMART Summer is a shining example of how libraries serve and support the entire City of Dallas through engagement, community and access.”

SMART Summer 2026 is made possible by the Friends of the Dallas Public Library and sponsors throughout the city, including Visionary Sponsor Atmos Energy, along with Pizza Hut, Whataburger and KFC; Book Prize Sponsor Annette Corman; Champion Sponsors SMU English and Lauren and Will Waldrop; and Innovator Sponsors HEB/Central Market, SMU and Donna Wilhelm. For a complete list of sponsors, visit supportdpl.org.

For complete program details or to register, visit dallaslibrary.org/smartsummer

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