Libraries adapt summer programs to the times

For many families summertime means extra time at the library. Whether cuddling up with kids for storytime, making Popsicle stick puppets with preschoolers, or enjoying a magic show with the whole family – library-sponsored activities offer educational fun for kids and caregivers.

However, this summer everything is different. Library closures due to COVID-19 restrictions left librarians scrambling to adapt their scheduling to a new world of Zoom and YouTube.

“We’ve had such successful summer reading programs with hundreds of kids attending,” said Cathy Bakken, a Spokane Public Library librarian. “This year we can’t do anything in person.”

Likewise, Jane Baker, Spokane County Library District communication and development director, said, “We had a full slate of programs for summer that we were so excited about.”

Both city and county libraries have reworked their summer programs to make them accessible to families at home. That adaptation involves two strategies: providing take-home activity kits and offering presenters’ performances online.

Bakken said SPL provides kits for three age groups (preschool, elementary and teen) each week – 1,300 altogether.

“This particular summer parents are desperate to give their kids something new,” she said.

From shaker eggs that can be used as percussion instruments, to Popsicle stick puppets, to locker magnets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy creating.

The kits can be requested at the library website and are available for curbside pick up at local branches.

SCLD also offers take-home activities via website request and curbside pick up.

“Our librarians came up with the idea so we would have another way to connect with families that either didn’t have the ability to connect to us virtually or the desire to connect virtually,” said SCLD librarian Mary Ellen Braks. “So far, they’ve been popular. All the kits the past two weeks have been reserved.”

Braks said 200 Creativity Kits are available each week on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Our themes for the next seven weeks are art, magic, nature, robots, fantastical beasts, outer space and then a surprise week.” she said.

And Spokane Public Library’s summer reading is in full swing.

“We have just over 1,300 participants registered for our free online summer reading program,” said Amanda Donovan, director of marketing and communications for Spokane libraries. “Customers can still sign up and kids under 18 earn a free book if they log 15 hours of reading.”

The county library district moved Camp Read-a-Rama online, as well.

SCLD launched the weekly half-day reading camp last summer, and this year is offering virtual 90-minute sessions.

“Kids are responding to camp positively, we have had an abundance of positive feedback from parents thanking us for spending time with their kids and keeping them engaged the entire hour and half they are with us,” said Melanie Boerner, SCLD literacy program coordinator. “You can see them come to life when we chat with them about everyday things and ask them silly questions. We really tried making it less of a classroom setting and more time to interact with kids their age and have fun.”

Speaking of fun, both city and county libraries are airing concerts and programs via Facebook Live, and when possible adding them to their YouTube channels for later viewing.

Bakken said the shaker egg craft will come in handy when kids tune in to Eyer Family Band House Party.

“They’re a local family with kids who play musical instruments,” said Bakken. “The egg shakers are the craft that week, so kids will have their own instruments to shake along.”

She was especially happy that Spokane Taiko, a Japanese drumming group, agreed to a virtual performance. The group is a family favorite of library customers.

“Spokane Taiko is going to show us how to make our own five-gallon drum,” Bakken said.

Also of note, the cats and critters from Cat Tales Zoological Park will be making their library debut this summer.

“We went out and recorded two tours, one for elementary age and one for preschool age,” said Bakken. “It was a lot of fun! The tigers are jumping in their little pools and there’s a new pair of arctic foxes.”

In addition to airing online concerts, Jane Baker said SCLD went virtual with their trivia events.

“These all ages trivia programs have been a big hit,” she said.

Up next is Harry Potter trivia on July 31.

Baker said another online presentation that promises fun for the whole family is a class on how to make watermelon salsa.

“It’s great to get kids in the kitchen,” she said.

Customer feedback about the Creativity Kits and online programming has been overwhelmingly positive for both city and county libraries.

“We’re trying to provide things we usually do in the summer and we’ve been very fortunate that people are so thankful with everything we’ve tried,” Baker said.

Bakken also appreciates hearing from families who are happy with SPL’s offerings and she offers this advice for frazzled parents.

“Keep encouraging your kids to read. It’s the best way to prepare them for school in the fall,” she said. “Don’t give up. It’s a special time with your kids.