CLOSURE: Central Library will be closed Tuesday, July 21, through Saturday, July 25, while emergency repairs are made to the building’s cooling system. We expect to reopen Monday, July 27. Click for more details on holds, program schedules, and returns during the closure. 

Notice of Public Meeting: Kalamazoo Public Library Board of Trustees | July 27 | 5:30 pm | Central Library/Van Deusen Room. The packet of information for the meeting can be found on the library’s website. 

Summer Reading Challenge

Summer Reading Challenge 2026

Unearth A Story – Begins June 1!

banner image that reads: "unearth a story! june 1 to august 29." in the bottom left corner, there is a drawing of a blue cartoon triceratops reading a book.

Important Dates, Events, and Activities

  • June 1: Summer Reading Challenge begins
  • June 6: Summer Reading kick-off at Central Library
  • August 7: Last day to submit Teen Raffle tickets
  • August 8: Wrap-up party for all branches
  • August 29: Last day to collect prizes

P.S.—Want to plan for even more fun at the library? Click here to see all of our new summer events!

Are You Up for the Challenge?

1,596 books
given
away!

All kids ages birth to grade 12 are invited to sign up for our summer reading program!

Here’s how it works:

  1. Sign up at any KPL location to receive your booklet and your tote bag (great for carrying library books!).

  2. Color a dinosaur footprint for every day you read 20 minutes or more.
  3. Pick up a free prize book after 15, 30, and 45 days of reading.
  4. Read 60 days and get a personalized bookplate in your favorite library book.

two summer reading challenge 2026 booklets. the booklet on the left is for young children, and the booklet on the right is for teens.

 

New This Year for Teens!

We’re having a raffle! Earn tickets by signing up, reading, and completing special activities. Put your tickets in for the basket you want to win. Good luck!

All tickets must be submitted by August 7. The raffle will be drawn on August 8.

Extra Fun Stuff: Pins!

Visit all our branches, complete fun activities, join us for programs, and more to earn
themed pins. Will you be an Awesome Architect? A Nature Explorer? A History Buff?
Complete some of the suggested activities and show off your pins on your tote bag.