Summer Reading Challenge RECAP!
We did it!
Our Summer Reading Challenge in 2025 was fantastic, and we’re so proud of our staff for their hard work in putting together so many engaging programs! We saw thousands of visitors at the library this summer, and we appreciate you, too! Your joy and creativity made all of our branches a wonderful place to hang out during the break from school!
Summer Reading Kickoff Events
We kicked off our challenge with plenty of fun! Both Bryant and East End had special parties leadingup to our Summer Reading challenge, with extra fun added! We’ll never forget our memorable The Dia Summer Reading Kickoff event at the Bryant branch. We had 236 folks attending our outdoor storytime, and afterwards Ms. Amanda and Ms. Callie released butterflies that had been carefully cucooned in the library. And in East End, the Summer Reading Kickoff featured a bounce castle, face painting, and grilled hot dogs. We had so many tigers roaring throughout the library – what a blast!
Summer Reading Challenge Youth Events
Did you know that across all three branches, we hosted a whopping 445 programs during June and July!? It’s true! Check out our calendar in June and July, it was PACKED!
We had everything: weekly crafting, fitness, and social events for all ages AND, special performers every Wednesday. Some of those wonderful folks included Brightstar Theater, The Little Rock Zoo, character actors from Fancyful Parties, The Magic of Scott Davis, Saline County Symphony, Museum of Discovery, Arkansas Learning through the Arts, and Big Poppa Bubble.
Makerspace Moment
The Makerspace was hot this summer! Everyone wanted to get in on the creativity. Compared to prior months in 2025, we saw a 233% increase in attendance! That’s a lot of painting, felting, 3D printing, knitting, crocheting, drawing, and jewelry making!
Not sure where to start? Check out all the amazing things our patrons have #LibraryMadeAtSCL. You can get some amazing inspiration from folks just like you who have used the free library tools and materials to make one-of-a-kind treasures.
Why’d it have to be snakes!?
The East End branch was absolutely packed! Our little library stuffed 156 people in for the event of the summer – our Creepy Crawlies program! Everyone pressed in close to see the selection of spiders, snakes, centipedes and more.
Summer Reading Adult Programs
We had four special nights just for adults only – and they went so well, the library can’t wait to do more!
- Summer Slashers – We had a horror-themed BINGO, spooky crafts, and ghost stories! (Both real ones and some fiction, just for fun!)
- Roaring Jazz Night – After enjoying crafts, entrees, and mocktails, we let the good times roar with live jazz music from the Saline County Symphony.
- 80s Dance Party – Karaoke, pizza, and retro crafts. What more could you ask for!?
- Art Gala Late Night – We ended summer with our smash success Art Gala night. It was a formal attire event showcasing of local artists with art to purchase, mocktails, and catering. The event has 26 local artists showcasing their amazing talents at the library!
Thank you!!!
The Saline County Library would like to thank our local partners for their generous support and sponsorship of the Summer Reading Challenge. Special thanks go to: Bryant Rotary, Connect2First, First Electric Cooperative, Jamey South at State Farm, Stated Apparel, and Counseling Clinic, Inc. Y’ALL ARE THE BEST!