Kids of all ages crowded around trays of “crime scene” pickles, searching for clues.
All of them had suffered a puzzling injury. As children dissected the pickles, librarians guided them through a goofy, science-inspired mystery activity at the Ashland Public Library.
It was silly. Creative. A little chaotic. And the children loved it. According to local parent Melissa Ashley, it perfectly captured what makes the library special.
“When most people think of the library, they think they just have books or maybe even a book club. Our library is so much more.”
The Ashland Public Library invites the community to discover all it has to offer through its 2026 Summer Reading program, “Unearth a Story.”
Inspired by dinosaurs and paleontology, this year’s lineup includes everything from reptile shows and science demonstrations to outdoor performances, crafts, movie screenings, and dinosaur-themed activities for all ages.
“Summer is truly our time to shine,” said Lindsay Brandon-Smith, Community Engagement Manager at the Ashland Public Library. “There’s truly something for everyone, and we’re excited to welcome the community.”
The library’s annual Summer Reading Challenge officially runs June 6 through Aug. 1 and encourages participants to set personalized reading goals each week. Readers can track their progress online using the Beanstack app or through traditional paper reading logs. Participants who meet goals throughout the summer can earn badges, rewards, and entries into grand prize drawings.
But for many families, the program has become about far more than tracking reading minutes.
“The library is such a great place to make connections. There are children and parents we only see at these events, and it’s so fun to see the same families each year and make friends,” local parent Megan Stover said.
Stover’s family first became involved with the library during the COVID-19 pandemic through a socially distanced duck scavenger hunt hosted in local parks. What started as a safe outdoor activity quickly turned into years of regular participation in storytimes, crafts and summer programs.
One of the most anticipated summer traditions is the weekly Wednesday morning performances at the Guy C. Myers Memorial Bandshell in Brookside Park. This summer’s lineup includes magic shows, comedy juggling, live animals, science demonstrations and interactive performances.
“My kids’ favorite library activity is the Wednesday morning shows at Brookside,” Ashley said. “They are 16 and nine years old, and they both enjoy going every week.”
Throughout the summer, families can also participate in programs like Dino Explorers, LEGO Club, Pokémon Club, STEM activities, art workshops, storytimes, movie-making workshops, and outdoor craft events.
The library’s annual Touch-a-Truck event will return June 6 in downtown Ashland, kicking off the summer program with construction vehicles, police cars, fire trucks and other large vehicles for children and families to explore. A quiet hour from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. will be offered for children who may become overstimulated by lights and sirens.
It is not necessary to have a library card to attend any events or participate in the Summer Reading Challenge, though free library cards are available to all Ohio residents.
For parents, especially during summer break, the free programming can provide unique and entertaining opportunities right in their backyard.
“It’s a really good way to provide meaningful and fun experiences for your kids that are free,” Stover said.
For Stover, the value of the library also extends beyond entertainment. She said the programs help children build literacy skills, social connections and confidence while exposing them to new ideas and experiences.
While reading remains at the center of the library’s mission, families say the Ashland Public Library has become something bigger: a gathering place. A place where children build friendships over dinosaur clubs and escape rooms. Where teens submit artwork to library publications. Where families connect in parks, at the bandshell and on the Bookmobile route throughout the county.
“We just always feel very welcomed at the library,” Ashley said. “It’s always such a positive place.”
The library has events and programs for toddlers all the way up to adults. To learn more about Ashland Public Library’s summer reading program and how you or your children can get involved, visit their website.
