ALL ABOUT SUMMER READING CLUB For Kids & Adults!
By Skyler Noble, Marketing & Communications Manager, Spokane Public Library
Read 15 days each month during the summer, earn prizes, and enjoy fun events and camps!
When the weather heats up in our region, dreams of lake days, late-afternoon ice cream runs, and family vacations quickly become a reality. Suddenly children are out of school and it’s time to fill your long summer days with fun, stimulating, and educational activities. There are so many things you could be doing, but what could possibly be fun for the whole family? If the library hasn’t been at the top of your list this summer, you may want to reconsider.
Summer Reading Club is no longer just for kids; it’s built with the whole family in mind. You can sign up any time—and it’s free!
You can win a prize each month June–August if you read 15 days! When you complete your monthly goals, visit any Spokane Public Library location to pick up the prizes available each month – all donated by businesses in the region!
“We are thrilled to make reading
more enjoyable with great prizes and a variety of exciting programs for everyone to experience,” said Denise Neujahr, youth services manager at the library. “The Summer Reading Club challenge is a fun and engaging way to help prevent the ‘summer slide’ and keep kids and teens prepared for the new school year in September.”
What’s the “summer slide” you may ask? It’s not a fun ride at your local park but a concept characterized by the loss of learning skills in reading and math while on summer vacation. The summer slide can be thwarted for children and teens who opt into educational activities in their off time. Summer reading challenges provided by local libraries can supplement opportunities for reading and growth during this critical time by encouraging kids to read, attend educational
events, and engage in routine creative and interactive activities and experiments.
Summer Reading Club is powered up by fun events that kids and teens can enjoy all season long. A full list of events can be found at events.spokanelibrary.org, but some highlights for younger children include Fandom Storytimes, Bike-About: Bring Your Bike to The Hive Day, Youth Art-a-Palooza, and a Drive-In Movie at the Library featuring Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie. Other fun events include special guests Cecil the Magician,
the Reptile Man, and Cedar the Highland cow.
Older students in middle and high school can register and enjoy fun escape rooms, Coding Camp, Music and Video Production Camp, and more. Each of these events can encourage connection, creativity, and lifelong learning while students are on their breaks for the summer.
Many adult lifelong learners may remember the reading challenges of their youth where classrooms won coupons, personal pan pizzas, or roller skate nights for reading, but why did the fun have to stop there? While the challenge has always been a fixture for kids in our community, Spokane Public Library expanded the challenge in 2024 to anyone ages 18 and up to incentivize everyone to read –because, really, you’re probably already doing it, so why not get rewarded for it? Why cultivate a generation of readers and library lovers to take away the fun when they age out? The fun doesn’t have to stop just because we get older.
“Not only does
the Summer Reading Club encourage me to read, but it also brings a sense of nostalgia for my days of reading to win free personal pan pizza. While I may not be winning pizzas now, I do have a chance to win a grown-up version of the prize: tattoo shops and restaurant gift cards!” says Jessica Fisher, a Spokane Public Library summer reading fan.
A tradition for many, Summer Reading Club is one of our most anticipated events annually. While enjoying your family vacations and warm summer nights, don’t forget the library is here for you. At Spokane Public Library, we believe the joy of reading is best spent as a community—no matter how old you are.
By
The move from New York City to Spokane might seem jarring to some, but to Eva Silverstone going from congestion to community connection was just what she was seeking. Although she never could have imagined becoming the central figure in Spokane’s arts community that she is today.
Shortly after moving here 23 years ago, Eva knew getting a library card would open up doors to her new community, so she visited Central Library in downtown Spokane. When she arrived, she thought, “What a gorgeous library, I wonder if they’re hiring!” And sure enough, they were.
More than two decades later, after working in a variety of different
positions, Eva is now the arts education specialist and creator of the Artist-in-Residence program at The Hive®. This project recently earned her national recognition from Library Journal magazine which named her a “Mover and Shaker” of 2025. This is one of the highest-regarded library awards in the nation, placing her alongside other national community builders, change agents, innovators, educators, and advocates who are shaping the future of libraries.
In her current role, Eva curates the Central Library art gallery, helps acquire public art, co-manages a book club, represents the library at the Spokane Arts Commission, and runs the
Eva Silverstone, left, winner of a 2025 Library Journal Mover & Shaker award and Arts Education Specialist at Spokane Public Library. Photo credit: Jesse Tinsely/The Spokesman-Review
Megan Rovira, Communications Assistant, Spokane Public Library
Artist-in-Residence Program at The Hive, which offers artists a free studio space for one to six months in exchange for providing community programming.
Her inspiration for this program came from her own experience with trying to break into the arts scene. “A lot of artists used to leave Spokane. My husband was one of them.” she explained, “But instead of blaming them for leaving, what if we gave them a reason to stay?” And from this desire, she built the Artist-InResidence program from scratch. With community support from the 2018 voter-approved Spokane Public Library bond, Eva helped design the studios, ensuring
Canoe that was featured in the Kootenay Gallery of Art in Castlegar, BC.
Eva expanded this program even further in 2023 by partnering with EWU to launch an Emerging Artist program. Once per year, two graduates from the BFA studio art program at EWU receive six-month residencies at The Hive. Not only does this help emerging artists maintain their momentum after graduation, it also helps provide opportunities and connections within the art community. A few of our previous Emerging Artists
“A lot of artists used to leave Spokane...but instead of blaming them for leaving, what if we gave them a reason to stay?”
artists of all kinds would have flexible work space to meet their various needs. While inspired by other residency programs, the Hive stands out for its depth and accessibility. Now, after recently concluding the fifth call for artists, The Hive received 48 applications and will be able to place approximately16 artists. The results of these residencies have been profound. One artist, who painted portraits of burn survivors, went on to win a $15,000 grant in Seattle, crediting the artist residency at The Hive as a factor in her success. Another created a Salish Sturgeon Nose
recently had the opportunity to exhibit their work at the Chase Gallery located in City Hall.
The Hive’s model is rooted in the belief that art, both the product and the process, should be accessible to all, not just behind walls and admission fees. The role of libraries is constantly evolving. Eva reflects, “We’re not just about books. We’re about access to learning, to art, to each other. I think this model can be replicated in libraries everywhere.”
Transform Your Craft with an Artist Residency at The Hive
The Hive is a non-traditional library centered around arts education and free, public event space— no books or computers here! In addition to public meeting space, four studios are reserved for an application-based artist residency program. If selected, artists can choose residencies between one to six months in their studio space. In exchange for the studio space, artists provide programs to the public and agree to be present a certain number of hours per month and during open studios on Wednesdays.
Since August of 2021, over 55 creative individuals have enjoyed artist residencies at The Hive®. These artists and writers have written novels, painted enormous canvases, silk screened on clay structures, built massive public sculptures, and so much more. The Hive® has been integral in helping these artists and writers realize ideas that have been percolating in the background for them, sometimes for years. The word the artists most often use when speaking of their time at The Hive is “transformative.”
Interested in applying? Check back in the spring of 2026 for our next round of open submissions! Learn more at spokanelibrary.org/ artist-residencies.
By Lauren Hayes,
As September arrives and families settle into new routines, many parents of preschoolers are navigating a season full of excitement, questions, and big emotions. Whether you have a child starting preschool or you're simply looking for enriching ways to support their development, Spokane Public Library is here to help. The library is more than a place for books. It’s a welcoming, playful, and educational space designed to support families through every stage of early childhood. Here’s how you and your preschooler can make the most of what we offer this fall.
Storytimes That Build Skills
Storytime is one of the most popular programs at Spokane Public Library, and for good reason. These sessions are thoughtfully designed to support early literacy, beginning math skills, language development, and social skills, all while keeping things active and engaging.
We offer a variety of storytimes to meet your family’s needs:
• Baby Storytime for our youngest learners and their caregivers
• Toddler Storytime for wiggly walkers and talkers
• Family Storytime for all ages to enjoy together
• Kindergarten Countdown Storytime for preschoolers getting ready for school
Each session includes songs, movement, and interactive stories that help children build vocabulary, learn to follow directions, and develop a love of learning. Storytimes run for around 30 minutes and are followed by a 30 minute playgroup with puzzles, games, and age-appropriate toys that promote sharing, problem solving, and friendship building. For the best experience, we encourage families to attend sessions that match your child’s developmental stage. This way, the activities and stories will be just right for them, making it even more fun and engaging! It’s also a great way to meet other families with
children around the same age and build a weekly routine.
Kindergarten Readiness Starts Now
Preschool is the perfect time to start building the skills kids will need for school success.
Our Kindergarten Countdown Storytimes introduce children to classroom routines in a playful, low-pressure environment.
Kindergarten Countdown Storytimes are designed to help your child develop essential skills like listening, taking turns, recognizing letters and numbers, counting, and following directions. But that's not all! We also incorporate music, fun movement activities, and lively conversations that spark curiosity and encourage self-expression. By fostering confidence in group settings and igniting a passion for learning, these programs equip children with invaluable skills that will serve them well in kindergarten and beyond.
Play, Explore, and Create
Learning doesn’t stop at storytime. Spokane Public Library offers plenty of opportunities for handson exploration and imaginative play. Each branch features a unique playspace for climbing, sliding, and even occasional scavenger hunts or simple crafts that encourage imagination and motor development.
These experiences help children build problem-solving skills, express themselves, and engage with the world around them. Also, be sure to check our
Early Childhood Education Specialist, Spokane Public Library
events calendar for special musical performances, seasonal celebrations, and art and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs.
Books for Every Milestone
Preschoolers are learning how to navigate big feelings, new friendships, and new routines. The good news is that there’s a book for just about every situation.
Our staff can help you find the perfect story to support your child through transitions, answer their questions, or simply make them laugh. If you’re short on time, check out our book lists and themed displays for a quick and easy way to grab a stack of great reads. Whether you’re looking for books about the first day of school, potty training, or learning to share, we’re here to help. Looking for a fun way to build a lifelong love of reading? Join our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten challenge. This self-paced program encourages families to read together, celebrate every milestone, and earn some stickers and prizes along the way! Every book counts—even the ones you read over and over again!—and it’s a wonderful way to build a special reading routine with your child.
Resources for Parents
The library is a valuable resource for caregivers, too. Whether you’re looking for parenting books, early literacy tips, or just a quiet place to regroup, we’re here for you.
We also provide access to WiFi, printing, and community resources. If you have questions about your child’s development or learning needs, our staff can connect you with helpful tools and information.
Don’t forget about our digital resources, including eBooks, audiobooks, and streaming content—perfect for busy days or cozy nights at home.
Make the Library Part of Your Routine
One of the best things you can do for your preschooler’s development is to make regular library visits part of your weekly rhythm. Whether you come for a program, to pick out books, or just to play and explore, the library is a space where your child can grow, learn, and feel at home.
Visit our events calendar to see what’s coming up, and don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations. We love helping families find new favorites and make lasting memories.
You Belong Here
No matter where you are on your parenting journey, Spokane Public Library is a place where you and your child are welcome. We’re here to support you with free, fun, and meaningful experiences that help your preschooler thrive.
This September, as you settle into the back-to-school season, make the library part of your routine. We can’t wait to see you—and your little learner—soon!
Pete the Cat Back-to-Storytime Bash
Let’s kick off the fall storytime season with a groovy celebration! Join us for the Pete the Cat Back-to-Storytime Bash, a special event for cool cats—toddlers, preschoolers, and their caregivers.
Meet the storytime librarians, join in Petethemed games, crafts, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activity stations, and get a sneak peek into a fall session that is going to be “pawsitively” awesome!
Whether your child is a longtime Pete fan or just discovering his adventures, they’re sure to leave with a smile—and maybe a new favorite book!
Check our events calendar at events. spokanelibrary.org for dates, times, and locations.
Tacos y Tequila is an annual celebration of the diversity and breadth of Hispanic/Latino culture. This 2-day culinary festival in the style of a block party, features live music, Latino infusion, local craft vendors, live entertainment, handcrafted tequila tastings and a beer garden. While there may be tequila and a beer garden in one area, there is plenty to do for the whole family!
Tacos and tequila have gained popularity in United States cuisine, but their cultural roots are often overlooked. Tacos are a vital part of Latino heritage, especially in Mexico, where
a rich history that predates their mainstream popularity in the United States. With roots that intertwine indigenous and Spanish culinary influences, tacos showcase the diversity and complexity of Mexican cuisine.
by Fernanda Mazcot, Executive Director of Nuestras Raíces
derived, highlighting the deep historical roots and cultural importance in Mexican history and society.
Nuestras Raíces is proud to be one of the oldest Hispanic/Latinoserving organizations in Spokane, with over 20 years of dedicated service to our community. Our mission is to uplift and empower individuals and families through a variety of programs and services that address the unique needs of the Latino community. One of our signature events, Tacos y Tequila, is a vibrant celebration dedicated to raising funds for our community center. This festival not
role modes.
• Business support and economic development: our center offers resources and guidance for entrepreneurs and small business owners, fostering economic growth within the Hispanic/Latino community. We also provide a computer lab to help students and entrepreneurs gain access to technology and digital literacy resources.
• Wraparound family services and behavioral health services: we provide comprehensive support for families, including access to behavioral health
this festival into the heart of Spokane. Nuestras Raíces and Central Library represent the city’s motto that we all belong, and the Tacos y Tequila Festival is no exception. The purpose of our festival is to create an environment in which the Hispanic/Latino community can celebrate their culture and heritage while promoting cultural inclusion and diversity in the broader community. We have had great partners and supporters through out the years in addition to Central Library. Downtown Spokane Partnership has been a supporter and partner since day one and The Palimpsests Group (TPG) is our main official partner. Visit Spokane and NoLi have also been and continue to be wonderful partners and sponsors. We are always seeking new partners and sponsors! You can learn more about these opportunities on our website tacosytequilawa.org.
As the Executive Director of Nuestras Raíces, I take great pride in being a Mexican-American immigrant and a resident of Spokane. It is with immense joy that I share my culture and our initiatives through this remarkable festival. This endeavor would not be possible without the unwavering commitment of our dedicated staff and volunteers, who work diligently to promote Hispanic and Latino culture within our community.
There is a Latino saying, “El hambre es la major salsa.” (Hunger is the best sauce). So, there you have it—come hungry and bring a friend!
For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit hbpaofspokane. org.
LITERARY NEWS FROM AROUND WASHINGTON STATE
By Sharma Shields, Writing Education Specialist, Spokane Public Library
It’s been an exciting first half of the year for the Spokane literary scene. Local writer Leyna Krow published her third title in January, Sinkhole and Other Inexplicable Voids, a collection of short fiction that houses the stories she optioned in Hollywood to the likes of Jordan Peele and Issa Rae. Most recently, So Far Gone, the latest from perennial favorite, Jess Walter, was published in June, and is already heralded as “an American original” by literary luminary and indie-bookstore owner Ann Patchett.
three generations of women affected by the fear and trauma that began with Hulls’s grandma Sun Yi’s devastating experience with violent political upheaval in China. This memoir is an act of love, and, as Hulls described in the library event, the nineyear writing and illustrating process she undertook to write and draw it was arduous and gutting. Feeding Ghosts deserves the Pulitzer and more.
Also pick up Matthew Sullivan’s new novel, Midnight at Soap Lake, a quirky murder mystery set in Central Washington that’s already a bestseller on the Indie Next list (Indie Next is part of the great national organization IndieBound, which supports independent booksellers)
Also new and notable is Stephaine Courtney’s latest picture book, Feed that Baby and Don’t Worry about a Thing, which focuses on Black maternal health. Her last indie-published picture book, Our Community: Black Leaders in Spokane, is also wonderful.
In addition to new publications, there have been some outstanding award winners, too. The American Library Association and their Young Adult Library Services Association—aka YALSA—chose Spokane writer and school librarian Stephanie Oakes’s latest novel The Meadows for its Best Fiction for Young Adults. And several Inland Northwest poets, including Gloria Bird, Fig DePaolo, Paul Lindholdt, Laura Read, Travis Wellman and others were included in Lummi writer Rena Priest’s beautiful anthology, I Sing the Salmon Home: Poems from Washington State, which won the Washington State Book Award in January.
One of the most exciting wins of 2025 was just announced this May: Seattleite Tessa Hulls won the Pulitzer Prize for her visionary graphic memoir Feeding Ghosts Hulls did a fantastic event with Spokane Public Library and Asians for Collective Liberation last year at Liberty Park Library. If you haven’t yet read Feeding Ghosts, grab it and marvel. The book generously narrates
Washington State writer Kirsten Sundberg Lunstrum, long considered one of the region’s finest prose writers, has recently published a novel called Elita, set in the Puget Sound in the early 1950s and featuring a feral girl found in a forest. Of the book, the Washington Post writes, “Elita is as much a meditation on society’s constraints on women and girls as it is a slowburning, twisty mystery.”
And keep your eyes peeled, too, for a new title from Spokane writer Maya Jewell Zeller ( illustrated by Jenny DeFouw Geuder) called The Wonder of Mushrooms: The Mysterious World of Fungi, which will appear right around summer’s end!
By Alina Murcar, Marketing & Communications Manager, Spokane Public Library
When Teddy and Ellie met during graduate school, their connection was immediate—bonded not only by their studies in therapy but also by their shared passion for literature and libraries. For Ellie, who grew up in Spokane, the
Their wedding day was a testament to their love and the library's significance in their lives. Surrounded by friends and family among the library's floor-toceiling windows and natural light, the couple exchanged vows that reflected their deep appreciation
For couples considering their own library wedding, Ellie has this advice: “Absolutely go for it! The library staff made our day seamless and special. You support an incredible institution and get to marry surrounded by endless stories and possibilities.”
Any Spokane Public Library location can be reserved for a wedding or special event! Visit go.spokanelibrary.org/ SpecialEvents or scan the QR code to start your next chapter at the library.
library was a sanctuary where she found support during challenging times. When the couple decided to marry, there was no question where they wanted to celebrate: the heart of Spokane, at Central Library. “It's where I feel safe and supported,”
Ellie shared in her wedding speech.
Teddy and Ellie both work with vulnerable communities. Teddy works with teenagers and young adults with developmental disabilities, and Ellie’s career is in social work. “I have seen firsthand how vital spaces like this are. The library isn't just a venue; it's a beacon of community care and education,” said Ellie.
for knowledge and community. “Our guests were thrilled," Ellie recalled. "Many are avid readers, and they loved the idea of celebrating in a place that symbolizes learning and connection.”
Now, as they celebrate their anniversary, Teddy and Ellie continue to cherish the library's role in their family life. “It's more than just a place for books,” Teddy explained. “It's where we've built memories with our daughter, where we've found refuge during power outages, and where we'll always feel at home.”
Photo credit:
Alea Kinder.
Complete Activities Log Time Spent Reading Add Your Friends
Download the Beanstack app to log time spent reading, complete activities, add friends, and so much more. From June 1 to August 31, people of all ages can log 15 days of reading to earn prizes!
Scan the QR code to sign up for free!
