It's time for HBPL's annual Summer Reading Program, and we're kicking things off with a fun family carnival outside the Central Library!

Join the Friends of the Children's Library at the Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival on Saturday, June 21, from 10am to 2pm in front of the Central Library. At the Carnival, you can sign up for the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge and enjoy:

• Silent auction
• Carnival games
• Face painting
• Book walk
• Crafts
• Food
• And more!

Carnival tickets may be purchased the day of the carnival outside at the ticket booth. Carnival Tickets are $0.50 each or 11 tickets for $5. Food vendors will be taking cash or card. Tickets for children's shows will be distributed 30 minutes before each show's start time at the FOTCL ticket table set up by the Tabby Theater. Children under 2 years of age who sit in an adult’s lap are free; everyone else attending will need a ticket. Seating at each show is limited by set room capacity numbers. Performances include:

• 10:30 am Show: Know Your Stories! with Ina Buckner-Barnette
• 12 pm Show: Comedy Magic Show with Dave Skale

To purchase tickets for the shows online, click the corresponding links above. For details and more information about the Carnival or shows, please visit the Friends of the Children's Library website at fotcl.org, or contact FOTCL at info@fotcl.org.

While you're at the Carnival, be sure to sign up for the 2025 HBPL Summer Reading Challenge! The 2025 HBPL Summer Reading Program has a reading challenge for every age – from babies to adults. Participants can register through the free Beanstack app, online at hbpl.beanstack.com, or in person at any HBPL location. Prefer tracking your reading with a paper log? Pick up a paper reading log from any HBPL location starting June 21. Receive a free HBPL Summer Reading book tote just for registering for the challenge, while supplies last!