Osceola Public Library delivers fun, free summer activities to area families

By HILARY FERRAND

OST news editor
hferrand@osceolaiowa.com

For the size of the population it serves, the Osceola Public Library offers an impressive number of programs for kids and adults, but it’s the quality of those activities that makes it a treasure among libraries throughout the state.

This summer’s “Building a Better World” series combines traditional summertime reading programs with engaging presenters, hands-on activities, crafting, games that get kids up and moving and more. There is something for every child (and child at heart) at the library this June and July in Osceola.

Wednesday, June 7, Dan Wardell was in town as part of the IPTV Reading Tour to kick off the library’s summer events, and Monday, June 12, ISU Extension’s Insect Zoo stopped by with some of the creepiest, crawliest creatures around.

Parents can pick up a schedule of events at the library or download it online, along with the rules regarding the library’s summer reading contests. Every week, there’s going to be something new for children to enjoy. Professional performers like Duffy Hudson, the Hanson Family and Magician Keith West will be stopping by over the next few weeks. Regular health, crafting and learning workshops will fill the summer with plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning and staying active. The staff has done a superb job of creating programs suitable for toddlers through middle school students and their parents too.

Similarly, the summer reading program is structured to meet the needs of the youngest to the oldest readers, though there are special rules for adults and children who are reading adult books to meet their reading goals.