The Tuscarawas County Public Library System is kicking off the 2026 Summer Reading Program titled “Unearth a Story” featuring themes of paleontology, archeology, and dinosaurs. Each library location will feature a kickoff party for all ages with a Bookmobile visit, activities, food, and the opportunity to register the whole family for the summer reading challenge.
“We have some really nice incentive prizes for those who register for summer reading,” says Library Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell. “Purchased with proceeds from our annual 5K, elementary school kids will receive a stuffed dinosaur reading buddy, teens will receive an articulated dino keychain, and adults will receive a dino-themed mug.”
Ramsell said the registration incentives are only available while supplies last and encourages everyone to attend a Kickoff party.
The Summer Reading Kickoff Parties are as follows:
- Tuscarawas Branch (209 South Main Street, Tuscarawas): Friday, May 29th at 2:00PM. Join us for games outside, enjoy lawn games, and eat some delicious hot dogs and chips.
- Sugarcreek Branch (120 South Broadway, Sugarcreek): Friday, May 29th at 5:30PM. Enjoy fun games on the law, an interactive scavenger hunt, popsicles, and a kids craft.
- Bolivar Branch (455 West Water Street, Bolivar): Saturday, May 30th at 11:00AM. Celebrate summer reading with us and enjoy snacks, games, and a fun photo op with Dale Duerr’s antique carriages.
- Strasburg Branch (356 Fifth Street SW, Strasburg) Tuesday, June 2nd at 5:15PM. Enjoy dirty sodas as you play yard games and watch an animal encounter hosted by Gator Dave.
- Main Library (121 Fair Ave NW, New Philadelphia): Thursday, June 4th at 5:30PM. Grab some food, unearth a “gem,” and participate in a community craft. We will also be hosting Mad Science who will bring the Unearth a Story theme to life at 6:00PM.
Staff will share more details about summer programs and opportunities to earn even more prizes during the summer program which runs through Saturday, August 1st. Visit tusclibrary.org for more information about summer reading.