Plant a Seed, Read! This Summer at the Springfield Public Library and History Museum

The library and museum’s 2026 Summer Reading Program launches June 8 with events for all ages.

This summer, Springfield Public Library and History Museum invite the community to Plant a Seed, Read!, a celebration of reading, creativity, culture, and connection for all ages. The 2026 Summer Reading Program begins Monday, June 8, and continues through Saturday, August 22, with free activities, events, and prizes. No library card is required to participate.

From multicultural events and family storytimes to online reading and prize raffles, the library and museum are offering a summer filled with opportunities to discover, connect, and grow through arts, culture, heritage, and literacy.

All ages can participate – and win!

• Young children, kids, tweens, and teens get a free book upon signup
• Teens ages 12 and older earn incentives throughout the summer
• Adults receive a free book after completing one title
• Readers of all ages can earn points and prize entries through reading and activity challenges

Weekly multicultural plaza series starts June 17

A beloved tradition of the Summer Reading Program, the weekly multicultural plaza series community members together in the heart of downtown Springfield to experience culture traditions, storytelling, music, dance and creative expression. Presented in partnership with more than 20 community organizations, the free Wednesday morning gatherings will take place at the Fountain Plaza from June 17 through August 12.

Highlights include:

• Rhythms of Tahiti with Anavai O Te Ora exploring Polynesian culture
• Veselka Ukrainian Dancers celebrating Ukrainian traditions, music, and dance
• Noche Cultural preview honoring the culture and traditions of Mexico and Latin America
• Zimbabwean-born singer-songwriter Ratie D performing with her funk-soul band
• Urban Jazz Dance Company blending innovative dance with American Sign Language
• Indigenous Cultural Celebration featuring World Champion Hoop Dancers
• Bollywood Bhangra Dance with DJ Prashant

Free lunch for youth all summer
Food for Lane County will provide free weekday lunches for youth ages 0 to 18 at the Library Plaza from June 22 through August 21, from 11:30am – 12:30 pm

Media opportunities
Local media are invited to attend and cover the Summer Reading Program events and multicultural programs throughout the summer. These programs offer opportunities to highlight youth literacy, cultural enrichment, and community connection in Springfield.

More information

• Summer events page
• Call or email Abigail Craig, Youth Services Librarian
• Call or email Mindy Linder, Community Engagement Specialist

About the Springfield Library and History Museum
The Springfield Public Library is a welcoming community space dedicated to fostering growth and connection through access to diverse resources and programs. Guided by its core values of community, collaboration, and inclusion, the library provides opportunities for all to discover, connect, and grow.
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About the City of Springfield
The City of Springfield is dedicated to providing high-quality services for its community members, fostering a safe and vibrant city, and preserving its rich heritage. Through innovative initiatives and strong partnerships, Springfield strives to enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.
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