The Carteret County Public Library System will launch its 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Unearth a Story,” on Saturday, June 13. The program combines reading activities, educational programs, and a community donation drive benefiting local seniors, giving families opportunities to learn, explore, and give back throughout the summer.
Designed for all ages, the Summer Reading Program encourages children to continue reading and learning while school is out. This year’s theme explores the world of dinosaurs, fossils, and prehistoric life through reading challenges, science programs, art activities, and special events at library branches across Carteret County.
“Our Summer Reading Program helps children stay engaged with learning, encourages a lifelong love of reading, and gives families an opportunity to spend time together at their local library,” said Library Director Dorothy Howell. “We are excited to offer programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and discovery throughout the summer.”
Families can kick off the summer reading season with dinosaur-themed activities, hands-on learning opportunities, and interactive displays at county library branches across the county.
In partnership with Carteret County Senior Services, the library system will also host a community donation drive throughout the summer. Participants can earn special reading program tracking stamps by donating items that support programs and services for local older adults.
Donation boxes will be available at library branches throughout the county. Requested items include:
• Household necessities: Paper towels, facial tissues, dish detergent, hand soap, laundry detergent, trash bags, and cleaning supplies.
• Personal care items: Shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, and body wash.
• Recreation and entertainment items: Paperback books, word search books, crossword puzzle books, candy, and snacks.
Featured programs this summer include educational performances, science demonstrations, animal encounters, and hands-on art activities, including:
• Magician Dana Hill (July 8): A family-friendly magic show featuring storytelling and audience participation at the Western Branch.
• A Pirate Encounter (July 15): A special storytime program at the Bogue Banks Branch featuring a pirate character and photo opportunities for children. • North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores (July 20): An educational program introducing participants to native North Carolina reptiles and their habitats. • Bright Star Theater (July 29): A live educational performance at the Beaufort Branch featuring history, science, and life-sized dinosaur puppets.
• A Time for Science (July 30): A hands-on fossil discovery program presented by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at the Newport and Western branches.
• Modern Pop Art with Michael Albert (August 4-6): An interactive art workshop using recycled materials at the Newport, Beaufort, and Bogue Banks branches.
“We want the Summer Reading Program to be an opportunity for people of all ages to connect with their libraries and support their community,” said Millie Sparks, Program and Outreach Coordinator. “Whether you are a year-round resident or visiting Carteret County this summer, we invite you to join us.”
The 2026 Summer Reading Program is made possible through the support of Friends of the Library groups throughout Carteret County and the Kiwanis Club of the Crystal Coast.
The program is open to residents and visitors of all ages and is designed to encourage reading, learning, and community involvement throughout the summer months.
For a complete schedule of events, branch hours, and registration information, visit www.carteretcountypubliclibrary.org or contact your local library branch.
