Category: Children

Summer Reading Program and Events for Children

Ruth Jansen

ADVENTURE BEGINS AT YOUR LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Friday, June 14 – Friday, August 2

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

Registration begins Friday, June 14. 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 24.
  • 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 24.
  • 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 24.

Complete all 6 weeks of the Summer Reading Program and turn in your reading record between Monday, July 29 and Sunday, August 11 to receive a goody bag and automatically be entered into the Final Prize Drawing to be held on Monday, August 12. 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 24 – August 1
No registration required
Toddlers and Preschoolers

Drop-In Summer Story Time for toddlers and preschoolers will start on Monday, June 24 and run through Thursday, August 1. We will be meeting in the Lower-Level Meeting Room. (No Story Time on Thursday, July 4).

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

GEMILY Concert in the park: Summer Reading Kick-Off Event
Friday, June 14
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program – Mill Creek Park North
Sponsored by Wolverine Glass

A free outdoor Family Concert will be performed at Mill Creek Park North, weather permitting by GEMILY (twin brothers San and Laz -their duo originally called Gemini – plus San’s daughter Emily. Gemini plus Emily equals GEMILY!) Refreshments will be served at the Farmers Market following the concert. This event kicks off this year’s Summer Reading Program “Adventure Begins at your Library”. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Bead Crafts
Tuesday, June 18
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Stop by the library and make bracelets, bubble wands, and other crafts using colorful pony beads. Registration is not required.

 

Adventure Rocks! Rock Painting
Wednesday, June 19
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 19 any time from 10:00 am until noon and choose a rock to paint. Registration is not required.

 

Adventure Stories with Storyteller Adam Mellema
Friday, June 21
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Chelsea State Bank

Celebrate Summer Reading and get ready to laugh as Storyteller Adam Mellema shares zany, high-energy adventure themed tales for the whole family. Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, June 25
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration required and begins Tuesday, May 14

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 Adventure. Registration is required.

 

Makerspace
Wednesday, June 26
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 27
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration required and begins Thursday, May 16

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 El Deafo by Cece Bell. Registration is required.

 

Ming the Magician
Friday, June 28
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Pearl Planning

Prepare to be amazed by Ming the Magician as he presents an adventure themed magic show. This 45-minute show encourages summer reading through magic, laughter and audience participation. Registration is not required.

 

Family Puzzle Race
Saturday, June 29
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Grade K and Up
Registration begins Friday, June 7

It’s a race to see which family will complete their puzzle first! The Library will provide each team with the same 300 piece puzzle and then the competition begins. Teams can have 3-6 people on them, but at least one adult is needed on a team. Space is limited. Registration is required.

 

JULY

Percy Jackson Party
Tuesday, July 2
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Grades 3 – 8
Drop-In Program

Calling all Percy Jackson fans! Celebrate the series with crafts, games, and activities. Anyone who loves the Percy Jackson series is welcome to drop in and join the fun! Registration is not required.

 

Imagine That! Musical Story Theatre Show
Wednesday, July 3
10:00 am – 10:45 am
Ages 5 and under
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Verapose Yoga

What do an enchanted goose, a persnickety baby bunny, and four rather naughty sheep have in common? They’re all part of this Engaging and Interactive Musical-Story-Theatre show by Janet Marie & m’Archibald AND every member of the audience. Imagine That! is a lively, sing-along-do-along- just-for-fun show for family audiences of all ages. Registration is not required.

 

Pirate Stories & Crafts
Friday, July 5
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Join us for a special Family Story Time and craft program featuring pirates. Registration is not required.

 

Introduction to Performance Arts with the Motley Misfits
Tuesday, July 9
1:00 pm – 1:45 pm
Grades K – 4
Drop-In Program

Have you ever wanted to join the circus, or at least learn some of the skills you might see there? A performance artist from the Motley Misfits will demonstrate how to use flow props like hula hoops, poi, juggling hats, dancing silks, and spinning plates. You may even get a chance to try out some of these techniques! Registration is not required.

 

Chess Club
Wednesday, July 10
1:30 – 2:30 pm
Kids and Teens
Registration begins Wednesday, June 5

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.

 

Club Create Book Club
Thursday, July 11
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
Grades 1 – 2
Registration required and begins Thursday, June 6

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 Pets. Registration is required.

 

Big Truck and Emergency Vehicle Day
Friday, July 12
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 Blue Puppy costumed character. Registration is not required.

 

Super Stories Book Club
Tuesday, July 16
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
For Young Fives and Kindergartners
Registration required and begins Tuesday, June 25

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.

 

Makerspace
Wednesday, July 17
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.

 

Aussie Didgeridoo and You
Friday, July 19
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Grades K – 4
Drop-In Program

Learn about Australian Aboriginal art, music and culture by joining us for this Australia-themed presentation featuring the unique instrument of the didgeridoo. Learn how a didgeridoo is made and hear a demonstration of various Australian indigenous animal calls such as the dingo and emu. Registration is not required.

 

Preschool Dinosaur Party
Saturday, July 20
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 dinosaur themed party at the Library. Get ready for an adventure as you explore a variety of stations with dinosaur crafts and activities. Registration is not required.

 

Creature Feature – Live Animal program
Tuesday, July 23
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Grades K – 4
Drop-In Program
Sponsored by Main Street Optometry

Join Dan the Creature Man as we meet and learn about a variety of animals in this fun and educational live animal Creature Feature show. Animals will include a chameleon, parrots, an alligator and more. Registration is not required.

 

Drop-in Pokemon Crafts & Games
Wednesday, July 24
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Children of all ages
Drop-In Program

Calling all Pokemon trainers! Join us at the Library for crafts and games inspired by Pokemon. Design your own pokeball, make a pom-pom pokemon, and go on a Pokemon themed scavenger hunt. Registration is not required.

 

All Star Readers Book Club
Thursday, July 25
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Grades 3 – 4
Registration required and begins Thursday, June 27

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 Good Dogs on a Bad Day by Rachel Wenitsky & David Sidorov. Registration is required.

 

Life-Size Candyland
Friday, July 26
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Enter the magical world of Candy Land at the Library!  See Candy Land come to life as a giant game board where you can participate in different Candy Land themed activities as you make your way through the game. Registration is not required.

 

Life-Size Candyland
Saturday, July 27
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Enter the magical world of Candy Land at the Library!  See Candy Land come to life as a giant game board where you can participate in different Candy Land themed activities as you make your way through the game. Registration is not required.

 

Lego Club
Tuesday, July 30
 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 31
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.

 

AUGUST

Theatrica Gladatoria: Summer Reading Wrap-Up Event
Friday, August 2
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All Ages
Drop-In Program

Join the performers of Theatrica Gladiatoria as we embark through swashbuckling scenes of excitement and adventure. From times long ago in places far, far away to the here and now, take a trip with us as we tell stories through action! Registration is not required.

 

Preschool Makerspace
Tuesday, August 6
11:00 am – 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 27
 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

    8/31/2021 – ATTENTION:  Support for iOS/Android has been added to the web based version of Smart Alec.  Please carefully read the new steps below.
    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

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    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.