Summer Reading Program

Hello Summer!

Get ready for a season of discovery, creativity, and community at the Downey City Library! This summer, we are proud to present our Summer Reading Challenge and special Summer Programming Series, inspired by this year’s theme: “Plant a Seed, Read.” Rooted in the idea that libraries help grow knowledge and imagination, this year’s theme encourages readers of all ages to explore how stories connect us to our culture, community, and the world around us.  

What to Expect

A wide variety of free programs and activities designed for children, teens, adults, and families, including:

  • Reading challenges and incentives 

  • Hands-on crafts, creative workshops, and STEAM activities

  • Live performances, special events, and interactive experiences

Summer Reading challenge for All Ages
Participants can sign up for the Summer Reading challenge and track their reading throughout the season. Readers of all ages, from early learners to adults, are encouraged to participate and grow their love of reading while earning fun rewards along the way.

Calendar

Summer Reading Challenges

Plant a Seed, Read

From: June 6 - August 8

Ages: 0-12

Come by the children’s office to pick up a reading log! For every 10 books you read, you’ll win a prize. For every completed reading log, be entered into a raffle!

¡Pasa por la oficina infantil a recoger un registro de lectura! Por cada 10 libros que leas gana un premio. ¡Por cada registro de lectura completado, se inscribe en una rifa

Summer Reading Programs

Check out what’s happening all summer long! Click on each individual date to learn more.

Arts with Ms. G | Ages 7–12

Young artists create fun projects while learning different art techniques.

The Ben Band | All Ages

An interactive musical adventure featuring Australian Animals.

Brettso the Great: Magic Story & Balloon Puppet Show | All Ages

A magical family adventure filled with comedy, balloons, puppets, and storytelling.

Busy Bee Farmers | Ages 7–12 | Registration Required

Explore the fun of farming, gardening, and creativity through hands-on weekly activities and crafts.

Creciendo Contigo: A Family Cafecito | Ages 2–3

A welcoming space for caregivers to connect and learn.

Discover & Play Day | All Ages

Drop-in play that supports creativity and learning.

Drones Club | K–6th Grade

Explore the basics of drone technology and flight.

Family Craft Time | All Ages

Fun hands-on crafts, creativity and quality family time together for all ages.

Family Math | Ages 2–5

Fun activities that build early math skills.

Family Rhythms | All Ages

Music and movement for joyful family connection.

Found Objects Juggling Show, The | All Ages

Amazing tricks, unexpected objects, and nonstop laughs.

Hora de Cuentos for Library Littles | Preschoolers Ages 3–5

Wednesdays Bilingual stories and activities that build school readiness.

Hora de Cuentos for Library Littles @ Downey City Parks | All Ages

Outdoor A fun outdoor bilingual storytime with books, songs, and family fun.

Hora de Cuentos for Library Littles | Babies 0–18 Months

Saturdays Bilingual songs, lap bounces, and early literacy fun.

LEGO Builders Club | Ages 7–12

Create and build imaginative LEGO designs.

Little Hands, Big Love Father's Day Craft | All Ages

Little ones can create a memorable grill for Father's Day. While supplies last!

Lunch Bunch Cooking | Ages 10–12

Learn fun and easy recipes while exploring healthy eating, nutrition, and hands-on cooking skills.

MORE Sign, Say & Play | Ages 0–3

Learn everyday signs that promote speech through playful interaction.

On the Grow: It's Potty Time! Play Series | Ages 1–4

Learn a fun way to toilet train children with sign language.

Painter's Space Paint-Along | Ages 6–12 | Registration Required

Learn step-by-step painting techniques while creating beautiful artwork.

Pokémon Club | Ages 5–12

Learn strategy and teamwork through Pokémon play.

POWERHOUSE!!! Percussive Dance | All Ages

Tap, clogging, Irish step dancing, and high-energy stomp performers.

Ready Readers Book Club | Ages 5–7 (K–2nd Grade)

Build confidence and reading skills by reading aloud and talking about books together.

Reel Family Fun | All Ages

Family-friendly movie screenings.

Rimas y Ritmos | Ages 0–5

A music and movement class filled with rhymes, songs, and cultural traditions in Spanish.

Rising Readers Book Club | Ages 8–10 (3rd–5th Grade)

Build confidence and reading skills by reading aloud and talking about books together.

Snack Scouts | Ages 10–12 | Registration Required

Explore exotic international snacks & treats from around the world.

Storytime for Library Littles | Preschoolers Ages 3–5

Tuesdays Stories and activities that build school readiness.

Summer Reading Kick-Off Event | All Ages

David Skale’s Magic show, crafts, giveaways, and a raffle prize opportunity.

Yogapalooza | Ages 4–12

Playful yoga and mindfulness for children.