Island Libraries Are Offering Summer Fun

SOUTHWEST HARBOR — A host of free activities are available for children throughout the summer at area libraries. From toddler story times to ocean creature touch tanks, there is something happening for every age and sensibility.

Southwest Harbor

During the month of July, the Southwest Harbor Public Library will host a series of summer story camps. Children in each weeklong camp will take part in exercises geared toward language development including writing, music, yoga and art. At the end of the week, they’ll leave with an original book of poems or stories, which they will have illustrated.

Story camp runs Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to noon, and is geared for children ages 5 through 9. Spaces are available. Contact children’s librarian Susan Plimpton at 244-7065.

A number of weekly programs will take place at the library from July 6 through Aug. 20.

On Mondays at 10 a.m., the library hosts Keith Martin, also known as “Mr. Mustache,” for picturebook entertainment for preschool and elementary children.

On Tuesdays, at 10 a.m., Ephron Caitlin reads picturebooks and poetry for children of all ages.

On Wednesdays at 10 a.m., Ms. Plimpton hosts toddler time for children ages 0 through 3. Activities include songs, simple sign language and interactive stories.

Also on Wednesdays, at 10:30 a.m., Eileen Brennan and her reader dog Minion offer a story time for preschool-age and older children.

On Wednesdays at 6 p.m., Dr. Tom Adams invites children to bring their teddy bears and cozy up for pajama time stories.

And on Thursdays at 10 a.m., percussionist Beau Lisy leads Kidz Beatz, an exploration of new and traditional rhythms from around the world, for children and families of all ages.

Bar Harbor

The Jesup Memorial Library in Bar Harbor kicks off a series of aquatic-themed activities today, Thursday, June 24, at 1 p.m., with Brass on the Beach, a musical presentation by the Bar Harbor Brass Orchestra.

On Thursday, July 1, at 10 a.m., scientist and town councilor Jane Disney presents “Marine Habitats,” with an eelgrass tank to explore. Ms. Disney will talk about how to preserve marine habitats, using hands-on experiences and songs.

On Thursday, July 8, two session of an “Aquatic Safari” with the Audubon Society will be offered. Children will learn through hands-on activities what lives in fresh water, and should be prepared to get dirty. Just 20 children can fit in each session, which run from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 11 a.m. to noon. Registration forms are available at the library.

Thursday, July 15, features “A Whale in My Backyard” at 10 a.m. Author Dee Perry will present the story behind the skeleton at the Bar Harbor Whale Museum. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

On Thursday, July 22, at 10 a.m., the library will be awash in arts and crafts. Various stations will be set up for children to create their own masterpieces to take home.

On Thursday, July 29, at 10 a.m., Tony St. Dennis from Morris Yachts will talk about boat design and boatbuilding.

On Friday, Aug. 6, at 10 a.m., singer and storyteller Robin Bady presents “Gone Fishin,” an interactive entertainment program for all ages

And on Thursday, Aug. 12, participants in the summer reading program will have a party, starting at 4 p.m.

Northeast Harbor

On Monday, July 19, at 10:30 a.m., staff from the Marine Environmental Research Institute in Blue Hill will present a program full of marine animals and touch tank activities for children ages 5 and older.

On Monday, July 26, at 10:30 a.m. Mary Booher presents a program of singing, games, dance and rhythm for preschool children.

On Wednesday, July 28, at 6 p.m., the library and the Neighborhood House to present Leland Faulkner, for an entertaining show of hand shadows, origami, storytelling and magic at the Neighborhood House.

On Monday, Aug. 2, at 10:30 a.m., wildlife educator Tony Sohns brings his water bug program for ages 5 and older.

On Monday, Aug.9, at 10:30 a.m., Nancy Tyndall and the Milkweed Puppet Theater present a show for preschool children.

Finally, on Monday, Aug. 16, at 10:30 a.m. the library hosts a magic show, based around water, with local musician Conjuring Carroll.

Both the Northeast Harbor and Southwest Harbor Libraries will host reading sessions with Reader Dog throughout the summer.

For more information, contact Eilleen MacLean at the Northeast Harbor Library at 276-3333, or Susan Plimpton in Southwest Harbor at 244-7065.

For more community news, pick up a copy of the Mount Desert Islander.

Comments (0)