Library system launches summer reading program

The Tuscarawas County Public Library System is kicking off the 2026 Summer Reading Program, titled “Unearth a Story,” featuring themes of paleontology, archaeology 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,” Library Director Michelle McMorrow Ramsell said. “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 available only while supplies last and encouraged everyone to attend a kickoff party.

The summer reading kickoff parties are as follows:

Tuscarawas Branch, 209 S. Main St., Tuscarawas: 2 p.m. Friday, May 29. Join us for games outside, lawn games and hot dogs and chips.

Sugarcreek Branch, 120 S. Broadway, Sugarcreek: 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 29. Enjoy fun games on the lawn, an interactive scavenger hunt, popsicles and a children’s craft.

Bolivar Branch, 455 W. Water St., Bolivar: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 30. Celebrate summer reading and enjoy snacks, games and a fun photo opportunity with Dale Duerr’s antique carriages.

Strasburg Branch, 356 Fifth St. SW, Strasburg: 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, June 2. 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: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 4. Grab some food, unearth a “gem” and participate in a community craft. Mad Science also will bring the Unearth a Story theme to life at 6 p.m.

Staff will share more details about summer programs and opportunities to earn more prizes during the summer program, which runs through Saturday, Aug. 1. Visit tusclibrary.org for more information about summer reading.