Let’s “Color Our World” During Summer Reading, June 16–August 17

Prince William Public Libraries' Summer Reading invites you to "Color Our World" from Monday, June 16 to Sunday, August 17, with special programs and activities for the entire family. This year's theme, "Color Our World," celebrates creativity in all forms, from visual arts to music and performance. PWPL has over 350 free programs designed to keep the community reading, learning, and connecting all summer. 

Beginning June 16, register at any of our libraries, online at pwcva.gov/library, or on the Beanstack Tracker app. This year's Summer Reading program is for all ages–from babies to preschool to grade 12 to adults. After you've read for 500 minutes–that's only 20 minutes a day for 25 days–come into the library to pick out a free book to keep. Yes, even adults get their own books! You can track your progress by picking up a tracker bookmark at our libraries or using the Beanstack Tracker app to track your minutes digitally. 

In addition to this summer's reading challenge, PWPL has exciting programs and special events for all ages. New programs have been added to this summer's schedule, and some familiar favorites return with special twists on the "Color Our World" theme. Here are some highlights to add to your calendar: 

Rodney's Raptors 
All Ages 
Central: Tuesday, June 17, 11:00 a.m. 
Haymarket Gainesville: Tuesday, June 17, 1:00 p.m. 
Montclair: Wednesday, June 18, 11:00 a.m. 
Potomac: Wednesday, June 18, 1:00 p.m. 
Chinn Park: Saturday, June 28, 11:00 a.m. 
Experience the excitement of holding a live bird of prey. Rodney Stotts is a master falconer and licensed raptor specialist from Southeast Washington, D.C.  

Layers of the Lake: Mixed-Media Art Class 
Chinn Park (Adults): Tuesday, July 8, 6:00 p.m. 
Haymarket Gainesville (Adults): Saturday, July 12, 10:00 a.m. 
Lake Ridge (Young Adults/Adults): Saturday, July 19, 10:30 a.m. 
Montclair (Young Adults/Adults): Monday, July 28, 1:00 p.m. 
Manassas City (Adults): Wednesday, July 30, 6:00 p.m. 
Potomac (Young Adults/Adults): Monday, August 11, 6:00 p.m. 
Bull Run (Adults): Tuesday, August 12, 6:00 p.m.
Central (Young Adults/Adults): Thursday, August 14, 2:00 p.m. 
Create a Virginia lake scene using mixed-media art techniques like watercolor washes, torn paper collages, and ink details. You'll be guided by local artist Kerry Molina. Registration required.  

Creepy Crawly Critters 
All Ages 
Potomac: Monday, June 23, 10:30 a.m. 
Bull Run: Friday, June 27, 10:30 a.m. 
Central: Friday, July 11, 10:30 a.m. 
Chinn Park: Friday, July 18, 10:30 a.m. 
Independent Hill: Friday, July 25, 10:30 a.m. 
Haymarket Gainesville: Friday, August 1, 10:30 a.m. 
Dumfries: Friday, August 8, 10:30 a.m. 
Montclair: Friday, August 15, 10:30 a.m. 
Get an up close and personal encounter with local bugs, thanks to Prince William County's Mosquito and Forest Pest Management. Enjoy different stations and learn more about our creepy crawly critters. 

Speaking of creepy, PWPL's Summer Scares will return in July. Come if you dare! Search "Summer Scares" on the Online Events Calendar to see programs and activities, including: 

Tying together the creative "Color Our World" theme with the creepy "Summer Scares," teens and adults are welcome to join us at Montclair Library on Wednesday, July 2, at 6:00 p.m. for Diamond Dot Horror. Craft a creepy magnet or coaster using the gem painting method with other fans of the horror genre. All materials will be provided. Registration required. 

Stuffie Taxidermy at Potomac Library encourages teens entering grades 6–12 to make taxidermy stuffed animals on Monday, July 14, from 2:30–4:00 p.m. Cut up old stuffed animals and mount the head to a wood board. Bring a furry toy friend, or use one that we provide. Registration required. 

Halloween in July Story Trail on Tuesday, July 29, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at Haymarket Gainesville Library. This program is ideal for all ages as you stroll along the Story Trail and read "At the Old Haunted House" by Helen Ketteman. Costumes are encouraged! 

Summer Reading is made possible thanks to our sponsors, whose donations allow us to bring quality programs and performers to libraries, purchase books to be donated to readers, and perform effective community outreach. To view the list of our sponsors, visit pwcva.gov/library or your library during Summer Reading. A special thank you goes to Amazon, which has been the program’s Naming Sponsor for three consecutive summers, and to Bricks & Minifigs, Woodbridge, which donated a gift card for a free LEGO Minifigure to everyone who completes Summer Reading while supplies last.

Whether you're interested in the Summer Reading challenge or want to enjoy all the programs our libraries offer this summer, visit pwcva.gov/library to create your personalized experience today.