The Freeport Public Library is inviting children and families to dig into a summer filled with books, discovery and dinosaur-themed fun during its 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Unearth a Story.”
The program officially kicks off Tuesday, June 2, at 10 a.m. with a festive morning designed to spark excitement for reading and learning throughout the summer months. Families attending the launch event can enjoy face painting, a bounce house and a special appearance by Bear, the beloved therapy dog.
School-aged participants will receive their first reading logs and dinosaur-themed book bags to decorate as they begin their summer reading adventures. Adding to the fun, Freeport’s locally owned SOOSH Plus Food Truck will sponsor sweet treats from Alsie’s 30A Gourmet Premium Ice Cream for children receiving book bags, with additional menu items available for purchase.
The Summer Reading Program continues through July 28 and encourages children to stay engaged in reading while participating in hands-on educational activities hosted by the library. This year’s dinosaur-inspired lineup includes paleontology-themed events, archaeology activities, animal encounters and creative crafts designed to make learning interactive and memorable.
Highlights of the 2026 schedule include clay dinosaur sculpting, fossil impressions, a Paleontology Fest, archaeology activities with the Florida Public Archaeology Network and a live Pittman Magic Show. Children will also have the opportunity to meet animals connected to the dinosaur world during the popular Animal Tales program.
The summer will conclude July 28 with an End of Summer Reading Party featuring foam fun and Kona Ice.
Additional bonus activities include Minecraft Dino Safari sessions on June 17 and July 15 from 3–4:30 p.m., along with a dinosaur-themed QR code scavenger hunt running throughout June and July.
Summer Reading Program Schedule
June 2: Kickoff Party
June 9: Clay Dinosaur Sculpting & Fossil Impressions
June 16: Paleontology Fest
June 23: Archaeology Fest featuring cookie excavation, Egyptian writing, earth layers and air-dry fossil impressions
July 9: Pittman Magic Show
July 14: Archaeology Story Time with FPAN
July 21: Animal Tales — live animal visits connected to dinosaurs
July 28: End of Summer Reading Party with Foam Fun & Kona Ice
For a complete calendar of events, visit WaltonLibraries.com or contact the Freeport Public Library at 850-835-2040 for information on summer programs, volunteer opportunities and sponsorships.
