Summer Scares: Chills, Thrills, and Family Reads at Prince William Public Libraries

Are you ready for some spine-tingling fun at the library? Prince William Public Libraries is bringing back the popular “Summer Scares” program from July 1–31, as part of a nationwide reading initiative dedicated to promoting horror literature for all ages.

Summer Scares is an annual reading program created by the Horror Writers Association in partnership with Booklist, Book Riot, iRead, and NoveList to encourage libraries and schools to help readers discover new authors, spark conversations, and promote reading year-round—not just during spooky season.

At PWPL, Summer Scares goes beyond the bookshelf with themed displays, hands-on activities, and programs.

To kick off this year’s Summer Scares, 2025 spokesperson and #1 New York Times bestselling author Kendare Blake joined the “Important Library Stuff” podcast to discuss the program and her works. Known for chilling titles like “Anna Dressed in Blood,” “Three Dark Crowns,” and “Antigoddess,” Blake shared what excites her most about the program.

“One of the things I’ve loved hearing from parents is how they’re using the reading list to create a family reading experience,” Blake said. “Maybe the 15-year-old picks a title, the 10-year-old picks one from the middle-grade list, and the parents join in. It becomes this fun, shared experience.” Listen to the entire interview online or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Music.

Scary Fun at PWPL

PWPL’s take on Summer Scares includes a variety of programs tailored for readers and horror-lovers of all ages:

Stuffie Taxidermy: Potomac
Grades 6–12
Monday, July 14, 2:30 p.m.
Create taxidermy stuffed animals. Bring a furry toy friend or use one of ours. Registration required. 

Cemeterrariums: Montclair
Teens/Adults
Wednesday, July 16, 5:00 p.m.
Create a spooky, cemetery-themed terrarium. Supplies are provided. Registration required.

Horror Trivia Night: Great Mane Brewing
Adults
Wednesday, July 23, 7:00–9:00 p.m.
Join us at Great Mane Brewing (6620 James Madison Hwy, Haymarket, VA 20169) for spooky horror trivia!

Halloween in July Story Trail: Haymarket Gainesville
All Ages/Families
Tuesday, July 29, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Stroll along the Story Trail and read “At the Old Haunted House" by Helen Ketteman as you go. Wear your favorite costume and enjoy a treat and craft at the end.

Explore Horror Your Way

Not sure where to start with horror? That’s what our librarians are for.

“Don’t be afraid to try horror,” encouraged Roseanne North-Jack, the Youth Services Librarian at Haymarket Gainesville Library. “There’s truly something for everyone—whether you’re just a little spooky-curious or a die-hard horror fan.”

Matt McCleland, Adult Services Librarian at Haymarket Gainesville Library, agreed: “You don’t have to come in through books alone. TV shows, movies, and video games are all valid entry points. If you loved ‘The Last of Us,’ we can help you find a book that hits the same tone.”

PWPL also offers free access to Kanopy, a streaming service with a robust horror selection—perfect for movie nights at home. See what titles are available on the Digital Library.

Join Us for Summer Scares… If You Dare!

All Summer Scares programs are listed on the PWPL Online Events Calendar. Whether you’re looking for book suggestions, family activities, or a ghoulishly good time, there’s something waiting for you at the library.

 “There’s no wrong way to get scared—just find what thrills you most,” Rosanne warned.