Summer is here, and the New Braunfels Public Library is inviting the community to dive into a season of stories, activities, and creativity through its 2025 Summer Reading Program. With the theme “Color Your World!”, the program promises not only to get kids and adults reading but also to inspire them to explore, create, and connect in new ways.
The fun officially kicks off with a special event on Saturday, June 7th, at the Main Branch Library on Common Street.
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., families can enjoy an outdoor karate dance party, a foam party, vehicle tours with the Police and Fire Departments, arts and crafts, snow cones, and a kids’ book sale hosted by the Friends of the Library. It’s a lively, colorful start to what promises to be a summer full of adventure.
But the kickoff is just the beginning.
Throughout the summer, the library will host a wide range of free events for readers of all ages. Activities include science shows, a sock hop for toddlers and preschoolers, a festive “Christmas in July” celebration, a dinosaur bone demonstration, and special themed story times.
According to Library Director Cole Johnson, there’s something for everyone: “It’s easy for the whole family to participate together and get reading this summer—just pick up a game card and get started!”
Game cards are a central part of the program, encouraging participants to complete a variety of reading and creative activities.
You can pick up a game card at any of these locations:
- Main Branch Library: 700 East Common Street
- Westside Library & Community Center: 2910 South I-35 Frontage Rd.
- New Braunfels City Hall: 550 Landa St.
- Das Rec: 345 Landa St.
As you complete activities, you’ll mark them off on the card. Finish five activities and you can pick up your first prize starting June 23. Complete ten activities for a second prize, and if you finish the entire game card (24 activities total), you’ll earn an entry in the grand prize drawing, with entries accepted through August 1.
The program will wrap up with a Summer Reading Wrap Up Party on Saturday, August 2nd, at the Westside Library & Community Center. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., families can expect live music, another foam party, and more celebrations to close out the summer season.
Beyond the prizes and parties, summer reading programs like this one play a vital role in helping kids maintain and build their reading skills, combatting the dreaded “summer slide” and fostering a lifelong love of reading.
Research has shown that children who keep reading during the summer are more likely to start the next school year ready to succeed.
Plus, these programs offer a fun way for families to spend time together, discover new books, and even explore new creative outlets.
Ready to get started? Visit the library’s website at newbraunfels.gov/summerreading for a complete list of events and more details about how you can participate.