This summer, readers ages 4-10 are invited to “Unearth a Story” through a unique seasonal reading program that blends literacy with exploration, creativity, and a love of discovery. Hosted by the Questa Public Library and community partners, the program aims to inspire participants to dig deeper—both into books and their own imaginations.
The “Unearth a Story” summer reading program, which launches Jun 5, is designed to encourage consistent reading habits during the school break while fostering curiosity about history, science, and storytelling. With a theme centered on discovery—whether it’s uncovering hidden treasures, exploring ancient civilizations, or digging into personal narratives—the program offers a wide range of activities to engage readers.
This year’s Summer Reading Program will be held on Tues and Fri from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Participants sign up when they first attend. While we encourage everyone to attend every session, coming once is better than not at all. Kids will receive a reading log and information about themed challenges. Prizes will be awarded for reaching milestones, such as completing a certain number of books or participating in weekly activities. Incentives range from small tokens like bookmarks and brag tags to larger rewards such as raffle entries for grand prizes at the end of the program.
In addition to independent reading, “Unearth a Story” features a schedule of interactive events, including storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and guest speakers. Many of these activities focus
on archaeology, local history, and environmental exploration—encouraging a hands-on approach to learning that extends beyond the page.
Educators and parents alike have praised the program for addressing the so-called “summer slide,” a term used to describe the learning loss students can experience during extended breaks from school. By offering structured yet flexible reading opportunities, the program helps maintain—and even improve—literacy skills. Plus, the thematic approach makes it fun and relevant.
Community involvement has also been a key component of the program. Local businesses and museums have partnered with us to provide resources and host collaborative events. These partnerships enrich the program by connecting literature with real-world learning experiences.
Organizers emphasize that the program is inclusive and accessible to all. We want everyone to feel welcome. Please feel free to contact us if your child needs special accommodation. As always, parents or caregivers are expected to stay with their child during each program session.
As summer unfolds, “Unearth a Story” invites participants to dig into new worlds, uncover forgotten tales, and discover the joy of reading. For more information, visit the Questa Library or phone us at (575) 586-2023.
