NEVADA CITY, Calif. — Old MacDonald had a … library? Anything is possible during the Nevada County Library’s Summer Learning Program, where this year’s theme is “Plant a Seed, Read!”
A farm grows food that nourishes our bodies; a library grows ideas that nourish our minds. This summer, Nevada County Library invites youth and families to cultivate curiosity through reading challenges, engaging programs and themed activities inspired by farm-to-table learning.
The season begins with the library’s annual Summer Learning Challenge and continues with programs, activities and book selections rooted in agriculture, animals and discovery.
Summer Programs and Kickoff Event
This summer’s lineup includes returning favorites such as puppet shows, Musical Mornings — now held on Wednesdays — and live animal programs, along with new offerings, including Click Clack Moo: Storytime at the Ranch.
The season kicks off with a free Library Hoedown from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at the Grass Valley Library, 207 Mill St. The event will feature pet adoptions with Sammie’s Friends, a petting zoo, face painting and treats from Lazy Dog Ice Cream.
How to Join the Summer Learning Challenge
Youth ages 0 to 18 can participate in the Summer Learning Challenge by picking up a Garden Game Board at any Nevada County Library branch. Participants will follow stepping stones and complete daily activities with playful themes such as “Beet Boredom,” “Bee a Reader” and “Feed Your Curiosity.”
Participants will receive a free book to get started, or they may track progress digitally using the Beanstack Tracker app for paperless participation.
Youth ages 13 to 18 may also participate in the Teen Bonus Genre Challenge for a chance to win a Nintendo Switch. Paperless participation through Beanstack is not available for this challenge
Printable versions of all challenges, available in English and Spanish, can be downloaded from the Summer Learning webpage.
Completed challenges must be returned by Aug. 8 to receive prizes, including a free tote bag, ride passes for the Nevada County Fair and additional surprises while supplies last. Participants will also be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card.
Lunch at the library returns
Free lunch for youth ages 0 to 18 will be available from noon to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 22 through Aug. 7, at:
- Madelyn Helling Library, 980 Helling Way, Nevada City
- Grass Valley Library, 207 Mill St.
No library card or registration is required.
For additional summer meal distribution sites in West County, visit communityrootsnc.org.
If transportation to the library is a concern, consider taking the bus! Youth always ride free at Nevada County Connects. Visit https://www.nevadacountyca.gov/4146/Transit-Services for more information.
More Information
For more information about this program and other library services, visit nevadacountyca.gov/summerlearning or call 530-265-7050 for details. Don’t forget to follow Nevada County Library on Instagram and Facebook for the latest program updates.