In an effort to extend summer learning opportunities to more area families, the Kansas City Public Library is partnering with Kansas City Parks and Recreation on Pop In at the Park. The program, which connects families and individuals to the Library's 2020 Summer Reading Program, runs through July and is part of a continued effort to reach the community while physical Library locations are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Library staff members will be at pop-up booths Tuesdays through Fridays, from 10 a.m. until noon, in parks throughout the city to help sign people up for the Summer Reading Program.

This year’s program, themed Live the Fantastic, invites readers of all ages to experience the power of storytelling and challenges participants to read five books -- any genre, any author, any title. Pop In at the Park offers no-contact assistance to sign up and then log all books read during the summer. 

Crystal Faris, the Library's director of youth and family engagement, notes that with its buildings temporarily closed and on-site services limited, new avenues are needed to acquaint families with the Summer Reading Program. Summer programs can be an essential tool in helping children bridge the gap between school years and maintain long-term academic achievement.

"We're excited to connect with the community and encourage reading for fun and continued learning over the summer, thanks to this partnership," Faris says. 

Later in June,  Pop in at the Park visitors also will be able to pick up Take-and-Make kits with the supplies needed for the Summer Reading Program’s virtual activities.

“We have amazing parks throughout the city, with great open space,” says Terry Rynard, director of KC Parks & Recreation. “We are excited for this partnership, to bring books and fun into the parks.”


ABOUT SUMMER READING

Pop In at the Park Dates: