A crowd of families and children celebrating Summer Kickoff outside in front of Northside Branch Library

Summer at the Library

Gear up for fun this summer at LPL!

Summer at the Library 2026 logo, designed by Cricket Press

Join us for exciting activities that will keep your family engaged in learning all summer long! 

For large groups, please call ahead. More information coming soon. 

Youth Reading Log
Older Audience Reading Log

Find Your Summer Read

Find Your Summer Read

Summer reading is for everyone! Check your child’s school reading list below, explore new books and summer staff picks in the catalog, and place a hold for pickup at your next event. 

School Reading Lists
Browse the catalog

Kick off your summer with the library

Join us as we kick off Summer at the Library with free books for kids, surprise guest appearances, and more. See below for a full list of our summer kickoff parties, or click the link for a full calendar of summer events.

Browse All Summer Events

Featured Events

For large groups (10 or more), please call ahead.

Princess and Hero Meet and Greet

Princess and Hero Meet and Greet
Step into a storybook adventure at the library! Meet your favorite princesses and heroes, pose for photos, and enjoy fun activities. Characters vary by location. For families.
Pikachu Party!

Pikachu Party!
Come meet Pikachu and enjoy Pokémon-themed activities for only the best of Pokémon trainers! For families.
Mr. Science Presents: Dino Lab

Mr. Science Presents: Dino Lab
Discover the science of dinosaurs with "Mr. Science" Jason Lindsey! Explore real dinosaur fossils, from teeth to eggs, investigate extinction theories with a meteorite launch, and more! For ages 5–11.
Summer at the Library Kickoff Party

Summer at the Library Kickoff Party
Free books for kids! Surprise guest appearances! Join us as we kick off Summer at the Library! For families.
Learn Balloon Twisting

Learn Balloon Twisting
Come and learn the art of balloon twisting from the pros and leave with some cool new creations of your own! Ages 7-12. Registration is required for each child participating. Registration opens July 13.
Sing-Along with Jim Gill!

Sing-Along with Jim Gill!
Sing and dance with award-winning children’s author and musician, Jim Gill — live in concert! Jim is a child development specialist who leads children, parents, and grandparents in joyful and interactive musical play. For families.
Kentucky Down Under Animal Encounter

Kentucky Down Under Animal Encounter
Join for a fun, educational encounter with unique live animals! Learn about their habitats, diets, and more. For ages 5-11. 
Lexington Children’s Theatre: Mariposa/Butterfly

Lexington Children’s Theatre: Mariposa/Butterfly
Two neighbors have little in common, until a caterpillar arrives and transforms into a mariposa/butterfly and unites them. This play is designed for ages 2-5.
Madcap Puppets Presents: Monkey See, Monkey Do!

Madcap Puppets Presents: Monkey See, Monkey Do!
Help expert zookeepers keep rascally monkeys out of trouble in this interactive, silly show. When one monkey faces a big move, their great escape begins — join the fun as the monkeys explore the zoo. For families.