Category: Children

Summer Reading Program and Events for Children

Ruth Jansen

“COLOR OUR WORLD” SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Monday, June 16 – Friday, August 1

The Youth Summer Reading Programs are open to children and teens of all ages through grade 12.

Registration begins Monday, June 16. You can participate online using the Beanstack website or app, or participate in person using a paper log.

Choose One of Three Programs:

  • Children who cannot yet read may participate with a parent or caregiver by signing up for the Read-to-Me program. Keep track of your reading goal and receive small weekly prizes beginning Monday, June 23.
  • Children who can read on their own may sign up for the Reading Club program and will earn a variety of beads and build their own personal lanyard reading log beginning Monday, June 23.
  • Teens and Tweens in grades 5 through 12 can sign up for the Teen Reading program. Keep track of the number of hours you read to receive small weekly prizes beginning Monday, June 23.

Complete all 6 weeks of the Summer Reading Program and turn in your reading record between Monday, July 28 and Sunday, August 10 to receive a goody bag and automatically be entered into the Final Prize Drawing to be held on Monday, August 11. Goody bags will continue to be available for pick-up until the beginning of the school year while supplies last.

Events – See each event page for more details and to register. Registration may be required for events.

Drop-In Summer Story Time at the Library
Monday & Thursday mornings at 11:00 am
June 23 – July 31
No registration required
Toddlers and Preschoolers

Drop-In Summer Story Time for toddlers and preschoolers will start on Monday, June 23 and run through Thursday, July 31. We will be meeting in the Lower-Level Meeting Room.

Story Time will be held on Mondays and repeated on Thursdays at 11:00 am. Books and activities are geared for toddlers and preschoolers. Each program lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Our story times will include picture, pop-up and interactive books, flannel-board stories, songs, puppets, finger plays and other activities that encourage a love of reading. Registration is not required.

 

JUNE

Crazy Craig Juggling Show: Summer Reading Kick-Off Event
Monday, June 16
11:00 am – 11:45 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Wolverine Glass

Be prepared for a high-energy, interactive, comedy, juggling, and variety show with performer Craig Wise. This 45-minute program full of non-stop action and audience participation is for all ages and will keep everyone on the edge of their seats, wanting more of his fun, crazy antics. Refreshments will be served at the Farmers Market following the show. This event kicks off this year’s Summer Reading Program “Color Our World”. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in DIY Fan Craft
Tuesday, June 17
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Cool off this summer with a fan that you decorate yourself. We will supply a variety of markers, paint markers, and other embellishments to make the fan your own. Registration is not required.

 

“Color Our World” Mini Canvas Painting
Wednesday, June 18
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

This drop-in event is for children of all ages. Stop by the Library on Wednesday, June 18 any time from 10:00 am until noon and paint a mini-canvas. Registration is not required.

 

Music at the Blissful Concert with Evan Haller
Saturday, June 21
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

National touring musician Music at the Blissful (Evan Haller) visits Dexter District Library for a fun-filled, interactive, movement-packed music experience for the whole family.  Come join the fun as we sing, jump, shake, laugh and go slow and fast with Music at The Blissful. Playing featuring songs off his new album, “What’s Next?” This is sure to be an action-packed good time for all. Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, June 24
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration required and begins Tuesday, May 13

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their children. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The June theme is Color. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Wednesday, June 25
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, June 26
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration required and begins Thursday, May 15

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our June book is Art Club by Rashad Doucet. Registration is required.

 

MellyPop! Puppets – “Chicken Little and Friends” Puppet Show
Friday, June 27
11:00 am – 11:45 am
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Come along and hang out with Aunt Betty, Chicken Little, and all your favorite barnyard buddies for a classic tale with a fun twist—YOU get to choose how it ends! This lively, interactive show mixes puppets, music, and plenty of laughs. It’s inspired by the beloved folk tales of ‘Chicken Little’ and ‘Henny Penny.’ Join the fun! Registration is not required.

 

Art Imitation Stations
Saturday, June 28
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Children of All Ages
Drop-In Program

Art projects for children based on the styles and methods of famous artists. Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Monday, June 30
2:30 – 3:30 pm
Kids and Teens
Registration begins Wednesday, June 4

If you enjoy playing chess, join us for a special session of Chess Club this summer. Compete in tournament-style play or a casual game and improve your skills. All kids and teens with at least a basic knowledge of chess gameplay are welcome to attend. Chess sets will be provided by the Library for this event. Registration is required.

 

JULY

Lego Club
Tuesday, July 1
 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Ice Cream Social for Dexter Library Card Holders and Drop-In Crafts
Wednesday, July 2
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Dexter Creamery

Show your Dexter District Library card and receive FREE ice cream – located in front of the Library. During our Ice Cream Social, there will be a variety of drop-in crafts on the lower level for all ages. Registration is not required.

 

Minecraft Party
Tuesday, July 8
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

If you missed the Minecraft party this winter or want to relive the fun, you’re in luck! This is another chance to celebrate your favorite building game. Unplug and take part in Minecraft-inspired games and crafts in real life. Creep on in anytime during this drop-in event. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in DIY Lei Craft
Wednesday, July 9
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Celebrate the summer season by creating your own lei to wear. String together colorful foam flowers and beads to make your own unique lei. Registration is not required.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, July 10
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration required and begins Thursday, June 5

Club Create is an independent book club for first and second graders. Each month Ms. Krista will read longer picture books centered on a theme and the group will participate in activities and crafts related to the theme. The July theme is Oceans. Registration is required.

 

Big Truck and Emergency Vehicle Day
Friday, July 11
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

The Dexter District Library will host a large variety of trucks and emergency vehicles for children and adults of all ages to experience, rain or shine. The parking lot will be closed during this event to allow freedom to browse, tour and talk to the owners and operators of the wonderful machines that make our lives easier and safer. Bring your camera – there will be plenty of photo opportunities with the vehicles and special Cool Cat costumed character. Registration is not required.

 

Nutty Scientist’s Light and Color Workshop
Tuesday, July 15
Session 1 – 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Session 2 – 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Grades K – 4
Registration required and begins Friday, June 20

School-aged children in grades K – 4 are invited to reserve a spot at one of the two sessions that are offered. Join the Nutty Scientists of Southeast Michigan for a one-hour STEAM program exploring light and color! We will learn about how our brains work with our eyes to take in the colorful world around us, through exciting, hands-on experiments. We will be creating colorful spy-like secret messages and pictures, discover the wonders of refraction, and make our very own take-home kaleidoscopes! Come and get creative while we learn about the magic of everyday science! Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Wednesday, July 16
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Make, build, craft and explore. Participate in a variety of open-ended activities. We supply the materials and you supply the imagination. Registration is not required.

 

 

Cameron Zvara: Comedy Magician & Entertainer Magic Show
Friday, July 18
11:00 am – 11:45 pm
All Ages
Registration is not required

Join us for a morning of FUN with Comedy Magician & Entertainer- Cameron Zvara! Cameron’s show is filled with mind blowing magic, comedy, juggling, music, and TONS of audience participation. You do not want to miss out! Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, July 22
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration required and begins Tuesday, June 24

This is a story and craft program for kids transitioning out of story time and into book club. Adults should attend this program with their children. Each month Miss Ruth will read books related to a theme and then the kids will do a theme related craft or activity. The July theme is Summer. Registration is required.

 

Textured Sunflowers on Canvas Workshop with KidCreate Studio
Wednesday, July 23
Session 1 – 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Session 2 – 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Grades K – 4
Registration required and begins Wednesday, June 25

Children in grades K-4 are invited to reserve a spot at one of the two sessions that are offered of this exciting art workshop. Artists will use plaster and paint to make a colorful masterpiece in the style of Van Gogh’s sunflowers! Registration is required. Registration is required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, July 24
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration required and begins Thursday, June 26

All Star Readers is an independent book club for third and fourth graders.  Each month we will play an icebreaker game, have a book discussion, and do an activity related to the book we discuss. Books will be available to pick up at the library after you register. Our July book is Stick Dog by Tom Watson. Registration is required.

 

Camouflage Animals: Live Animal program
Friday, July 25
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Learn how animals use camouflage to survive, feed, and find shelter in their natural environments. This amazing show features a variety of animals from different countries and diverse ecosystems. Registration is not required.

 

Preschool Pigeon Party
Saturday, July 26
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Children ages 5 and under, along with their caregivers, are invited to a special party celebrating Mo Willem’s Pigeon books. Explore a variety of stations with Pigeon crafts, games, and other activities. Registration is not required.

 

Adopt a Stuffed Animal Pet
Tuesday, July 29
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program 

Drop by the library and choose a mini stuffed animal to adopt as a pet. Fill out a certificate of adoption, decorate a pet carrier, and make a beaded collar for your pet to wear. These pets make great reading buddies too! Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, July 29
 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

 

Movie & Popcorn for Kids
Dog Man (PG – 2025)
Wednesday, July 30
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Kids of all ages are invited to stop by the Library and watch Dog Man (2025) on the big screen while enjoying a free bag of popcorn. Registration is not required. 

When a dog and a police officer are injured together on the job, a life-saving surgery changes the course of history. Half dog, half man, Dog Man is sworn to protect and serve as he doggedly pursues his arch-nemesis: the feline supervillain Petey the Cat. But the rivalry between Dog Man and Petey is upended by the arrival of an adorable kitten clone of Petey, Lil Petey.

Rated PG – 93 minutes

 

AUGUST

Big Bubble Dance Party – Summer Reading Program Wrap-Up Event
Friday, August 1
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Children of all ages will enjoy playing with a huge variety of bubble wands to create bubbles while dancing to family friendly music as bubble machines create thousands of bubbles all around! Registration is not required.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Tuesday, August 5
11:00 – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program

Make, try, create and play at the Library. Young children will explore a variety of stations with open-ended creative activities designed to encourage early learning. Children need an active adult partner to help them. Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, August 26
 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Grades K – 8
Drop-In Program

Kids in grades K through 8 are invited to spend an afternoon making their own Lego creations while visiting with old friends and making new ones.  Everyone is welcome – Legos will be provided by the Library.  Registration is not required.

Kids Zone

Scott Wright

Enjoy this collection of librarian-tested websites for kids of all ages.  If you’re home and looking for things to do to keep busy, scroll down for a vast variety of resources to help. 

  •  All
  • Learning
  • Self Care
  • Activities
  • Book Characters

Do you like this page?  Share with your friends on your facebook page.

Apply For A Library Card

Scott Wright

We are now offering online library card registration.

Please fill out the form below to apply for a temporary Dexter District Library borrower’s card.

We will provide your card information via e-mail and send your physical card to your home address via standard postal mail.  If you need a Library card immediately, please visit the Library to register.  The Library is open to the public for registration and browsing materials.  Processing time for online registrations may vary and physical card delivery is dependent on postal mail.

A valid card number is required to access the Library’s electronic content.  This content is always available and can be accessed from home.

We require all new applicants to visit the Library building to complete the registration process and extend the expiration date of new cards beyond the temporary registration period.  

Our borrower’s cards are only available to residents of the Dexter School District, including students.  If you reside outside our service area, please check with your home library about getting a card.

Parents:  When registering a child for a Library card, please use a parental e-mail address.  Dexter Community School student e-mail addresses prevent receipt of all external e-mails, including those from the Library.

    Kids Catalog

    Scott Wright

    The Library now has a kid friendly catalog available.  It features a responsive design that will fit on almost any screen size and works well with touch controls.  Click the graphic below to access the new kids catalog.

     

    Wi-Fi Printing

    Scott Wright

    The Dexter District Library now offers wi-fi printing compatible with your smartphone, tablet, or laptop!  For black and white, the price is $0.10 per page.  For full color, the price is $0.20 per page.

     

    Wireless Printing

    3/10/2025 – New options for emailing print jobs to the release station, printing from Google Drive, and printing a URL directly have been added.
    Please follow the directions below:  

     

    A. Click here for directions on how to upload your documents/photos to our print release station.

    These directions should now work for all devices, but legacy directions are listed below.

     Android Logo

    B. (NOTE:  Please try step A first) Click here for legacy directions for Android Devices

    Android Logo

    C. (NOTE:  Please try step A first) Click here for legacy directions for iPhone, iPad, iPod

     

     

     

    Picture Book Reading Lists

    Scott Wright

    Michigan Activity Pass

    Scott Wright

    The Michigan Activity Pass presented by The Library Network program is a partnership between 638 public libraries, 11 library cooperatives, and 400+ destinations. The program is designed to enhance the learning experience for people of all ages through books and other library materials, and to provide reduced cost or complimentary access to arts and cultural organizations across the state of Michigan, from Monroe to Mackinaw City to Marquette, and all points in between.  All passes are issued online through the MAP site:

    http://MIActivityPass.org 

    Introduction to Story Times

    Scott Wright

    4-youthactivitiesroom

    Many parents and caregivers are not aware of the planning and preparation it takes to present a 30 minute story time here at the Library. The planning process begins with choosing a theme for each week, particularly one that would be of interest to a toddler or preschool child. Examples of themes often used are Farm, Pond or Jungle Animals, Bedtime, Bath Time, Pets, Monsters, Dinosaurs and Transportation as well as concept themes such as Colors, Counting, Opposites and Shapes. Age appropriate books that are entertaining to small children are then selected, action rhymes are prepared to encourage enjoyment of the rhythm of language, a variety of visual aids are selected to keep a child’s interest during the sessions and songs for dancing or singing are added because very young children are not expected to sit still and listen for 30 minute intervals.

    Dexter District Library also has a wide variety of programming materials for story times. There are over 300 interactive, pop-up and lift-the-flap books in our Professional Collection and our story time cupboards hold a huge collection of hand puppets, finger puppets, story telling kits, literacy bags, flannel board pieces, rhythm sticks and other materials that encourage the love of reading. The Friends of the Dexter District Library have also purchased several popular children’s books in big book format to add to the Professional Collection and an easel to hold the books, making it easier to read and show during story times. This collection has become very useful when children need to sit and listen to a book for a longer period of time.

    Attendance at story times is often a child’s first introduction to the many services offered by the Dexter District Library. When the program is geared to their interests with the knowledge of what is developmentally appropriate for their age group, the Library has the opportunity to create life-long readers and Library users in the Dexter Community. It is with this knowledge in mind, that story times are carefully planned and implemented to introduce the entertaining side of literature to young children.

    Tips for Story Time Success

    For many children this will be their first group experience. The following tips will help to make it a happy one:

    • Participate:  Please join in the activities and save interactions with other parents until after the program. Children love to see their grown-ups listening and participating in story times.
    • Minimize distractions: Plan to arrive early. Snacks or toys should be put away and cell phones should be silenced before story times begin.
    • Be prepared for bad days: It’s okay, sometimes children just have bad days and we understand.  If your child becomes very restless or uncooperative, please step outside the story time room for a few moments to regroup. If you need to leave the session for the day, please come back the following week.
    • Relax: There is no expectation that your child will sit still and participate in every activity. Music and movement is incorporated into our all of our story times to keep it interesting and fun.
    • Bring it back home:  Plan to check out books each week for you and your child to read at home together.
    • Ask for help:  Our Library staff is available to assist you in selecting which story time is right for your child, to guide you in choosing appropriate books and materials, and to provide information about other library services.
    • Visits from groups:  Our weekly story times are designed for individual children and their parent or caregiver. Arrangements for a daycare, school or other group field trips should be made in advance.
    • Keep it healthy:  If you suspect that your child is coming down with something, has a fever or is still coughing or sneezing after a bad cold, please skip a session until they are feeling 100% again.