Hey, families! The North Olympic Library System is the place to be this summer!

In addition to offering an exciting summer reading challenge, all four libraries are hosting a wide range of events for babies, children, young adults and families. The library offers activities and programs to encourage reading – and fun – over the summer.

This summer, the library is challenging youths (ages birth to 12) to read, or be read to, for 14 hours between June 17-Aug. 3. Children who complete the challenge can pick out a free book. Sign up at the library or download a program game sheet! Completed game sheets must be turned in by Aug. 3 to be eligible for a drawing for an eReader tablet (the KoboArc). Each reader who completes the program will receive a free book (one free book per reader; unlimited entries for grand prize drawing).

But wait! There’s more!

Events this summer include performances by jugglers, magicians, puppeteers, rock bands, and even the opportunity to dig for fossils. “Summer reading is always great fun,” says Assistant Director Margaret Jakubcin, “and the line-up this year is fabulous. Events are made possible through the generous support of the Port Angeles, Clallam Bay, Forks and Sequim Friends of the Library.”

Louie Foxx

Magic, comedy and juggling with “things normally found underground.” Forks, Monday, June 24 at 10:30 a.m.

Dr. Kaboom.

Super science experiments will have you erupting with laughter and bubbling with curiosity.

Clallam Bay, Monday, July 1, at 1 p.m. and Forks, July 1, at 5 p.m.

Port Angeles Fourth of July Parade

Come dressed as a character from a book or just as yourself. Mask and craft-making session at the parade line-up in Vern Burton Center parking lot. Children under 12 must bring an adult. Thursday, July 4, from 4-7 p.m. at the Vern Burton Center

How Does My Garden Grow?

Enjoy stories, songs, activities, and plant a fun container garden. For children ages 5 to 12.

Forks, Wednesday, July 10, at 11 a.m.

Luce Puppet Company

Sam and Salty try to bake a cake in this one-of-a-kind puppet show.

Monday, July 15, at 10:30 a.m. in Forks, and Monday, July 15, at 2 p.m. in Clallam Bay.

Ouch! All About Hedgehogs

Learn all about hedgehogs at a fun and prickly program for children age 5 to 12.

Wednesday, July 31, at 11 a.m. in Forks.

For more information, contact the library at

360-417-8500 x 7705, or e-mail kids@nols.org. NOLS is also offering summer program and volunteer opportunities for young adults – visit www.nols.org for details.

The Forks Branch is at 71 N. Spartan Ave., but all Forks programs will be held at the Forks Community Center, 91 Maple Ave.