Library series encourages learning throughout the summer

Catapulting kids’ curiosity

Most students are ecstatic to abandon their notebooks and book bags for the summer. For parents, keeping their children occupied during the three-month vacation can be daunting.

From messy science experiments to interactive art projects, the Dallas Public Library’s summer events series engages children across the city when the weather is sweltering and parents are busy working.

“It gives kids a place to go during the summer and shows the value that the library provides,” says Lauren Hough, the children’s librarian at the Preston Royal branch. “We’re not just books. We’re a place for knowledge.”

The Preston Royal Library’s programs are so popular that Advocate readers voted it the best place to take kids in Preston Hollow during our annual Best Of Contest in 2015.

Hough starts planning the summer series in January, so there’s plenty of variety for families. This year, 40 activities are slated throughout the summer. Kids can try their hand at creating color-changing slime, visit with raptors and watch skits performed by the Dallas Children’s Theater.

“I try to mix it up,” Hough says. “I like to get community helpers in the library, so they can see who is making the city great.”