Summer is officially underway at the North Fork Branch Library, and this year’s Summer Reading Program is encouraging local children and families to grow their imaginations while cultivating a love of reading.

The 2026 theme, “Plant a Seed, Read!”, combines literacy, learning, and nature through a series of free educational and entertainment programs scheduled throughout June and July.

While the North Fork Branch Library remains a cornerstone of the mountain community, all Summer Reading Program events will be held nearby at the North Fork Studio, located at 32870 Road 222, directly across from the library. Participants are encouraged to register in advance through the library’s online reservation system.

The summer lineup features a variety of hands-on experiences designed to engage young readers and lifelong learners alike:

• Aquarius Aquarium — June 16, noon to 1 p.m.
• The Science Wizard — June 20, 1 to 2 p.m.
• Bubble Man — June 27, noon to 1 p.m.
• Fun Time Balloon Twisting Workshop (ages 13 and older) — July 10, noon to 1 p.m.
• Reptile Ron — July 16, 1 to 2 p.m.
• 3D Printing Workshop (ages 13 and older, limited seating) — July 18, noon to 1 p.m.

In addition to the live programs, participants can sign up through Beanstack to track reading progress, complete challenges, and earn prizes throughout the summer. The reading challenge is open to children, teens, and adults.

A Community Resource Beyond Books

The North Fork Branch Library has long served as more than just a place to borrow books. As part of the Madera County Library system, the branch provides access to computers, internet services, educational resources, community programming, and digital collections for residents throughout the mountain area. The library’s mission is to provide a place where community members can connect, learn, and grow.

Located in the heart of North Fork, the branch serves residents from across the surrounding foothill and mountain communities. The library is one of five branches operated by Madera County Library and is part of the larger San Joaquin Valley Library System.

The facility is also in the midst of significant improvements. In recent years, the North Fork branch was awarded funding through California’s Building Forward Library Infrastructure Program, and renovation work is currently moving forward to modernize the building and improve services for local residents.

Fighting the Summer Slide

Summer reading programs have become a staple of public libraries nationwide because they help students maintain literacy skills during the school break. Research consistently shows that children who continue reading throughout the summer are better prepared when they return to the classroom in the fall.

By pairing reading challenges with engaging educational programs featuring science, animals, technology, and hands-on activities, libraries help make learning fun while keeping young minds active during the summer months.

Families interested in participating can visit the library’s Beanstack page to register for reading challenges and learn more about upcoming events.

For many local children, this summer’s challenge is simple: plant a seed, open a book, and watch both grow.