BOZEMAN — The Bozeman Public Library has a summer calendar full of special events for all ages. The summer learning program, which has been running for over 50 years, is a nine-week interactive and free program. Events run from June 10 through Aug. 11.

“The summer learning program has something for everyone in every stage of life from little babies to elders,” Ellie Newell, Youth Services Department Head, explained. “Join us to explore stories, science, art, movement, and culture all summer long.”

Kids can enjoy activities such as storytime, STEAM play, and special guest programs from groups such as Tinworks Art, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and Museum of the Rockies. For teens, the Library has prepared a maker series that teaches skills through workshops in the new Creative Labs and ends in a teen lock-in. Adult programming includes book clubs, workshops exploring the Work Bench and Kitchen Table, guided nature walks, a movement series that includes yoga and gyrokinesis, and movie nights.

For people of all ages, the Library is hosting two lively concerts via the Music on the Green events in July and August. Mobile library services will also be provided throughout the summer.

Summer learning is especially important to combat “summer slide,” the phenomenon in which kids who do not read, do math and science, and learn during the summer lose educational skills. Summer reading is not just encouraged for kids; reading can improve health and happiness at any age.

Unfortunately, there will be no free lunch for youth at the library this summer. Funding for this program is based on federally-drawn economic maps, and the library’s neighborhood no longer qualifies for this service. Those interested in finding a lunch site can text “lunch” or “comida” to 304-304 or visit the Gallatin Valley Food Bank Summer Meals website at gallatinvalleyfoodbank.org/get-help/summer-meals/.

 

More information, including the full listing of events, can be found at bozemanlibrary.org and in the Summer Guidebook, available in the Library and bookmobile.