Summer of Reading at the Barnum Branch Library

Every summer, our Barnum Branch Library (1st and Lowell) offers a pretty amazing summer program for kids. Not only can kids get awesome prizes for reading, they can also stop in to the library for an impressive lineup of free performances, crafts, and activities all summer long. Prizes are available for children from birth through 12th grade. Ask one of our local librarians or visit the Summer of Reading website for more details.

You can pick up reading logs for your kiddos beginning June 2nd. Here's a sneak peek at what is coming this summer to our Barnum Branch Library. Printed calendars are available at the branch:

TUESDAY, JUNE 3

1 p.m.

Hand Painted Ceramic Dunk Mug

This is such a popular mug! It holds your milk AND your cookies! It’s so fun to paint too since you can paint it like Cookie Monster, Minions, and more. (Project will be fired at Ceramics in the City and returned to library in 1 weeks time.) Registration is required. Please call to reserve your space.

TUESDAY, JUNE 10

1 p.m.

Connie Elstun’s Super Science Magic Show

Spend an hour with Connie and some members of her hilarious cast as she teaches you how they found out Science is Magic and Magic is Science. This popular program includes incredible magic and hands-on learning. All supplies are provided and the laughter is free. Good for all ages. No registration is required.

TUESDAY, JUNE 17

1 p.m.

Mark Strivings - Crazy Inventions

Master Magician Mark Strivings is at it again! He's been tinkering in his lab and will be showing you some of his crazy contrivances, daffy devices, wacky widgets, goofy gadgets and all kinds of fabulous flummery! It's magic like you've never seen before and so much fun it shouldn't be legal! Be there! No registration is required.

TUESDAY, JUNE 24

2 p.m.

Ann Lincoln -Space Alien’s Big Bang Magic and Juggling Show

She came from Outer Space and crash landed at your library! Now Ann Lincoln will have to “Fizz, Boom, Read” in order to blast off back to her home planet. Perfect for ages 3-10. No registration is required.

TUESDAY, JULY 1

1 p.m

Wild Wings Environmental Education - Raptors of the Rockies

In this interactive program, we explore the tools and adaptations that different raptors use to be successful in the wild. The program features live birds - a hawk, an owl, and a falcon - all species that are found here in Colorado. This program concludes with a discussion on the important roles of these raptors in the environment. No registration is required.

SATURDAY, JULY 12

1 p.m.

Harmony Yoga- Yoga for Kids

Let's take time out for yoga and ourselves. Yoga helps to reduce stress and create calm minds and bodies. We will move our bodies, breathe deeply and relax in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Flexibility not required, and no experience necessary. A limited number of mats will be provided; students are encouraged to bring one if they have one. No registration is required.

SATURDAY, JULY 19

1 p.m.

Safari Sallly - Fizz, Boom, Hiss and Kerplop

Did you hear that? What makes that sound? Get a chance to get up close and personal with some amazing animals with Safari Sally. From invertebrates, reptiles to mammals have a great time while you learn some amazing facts about these animals. From preschool to adults, there’s nothing more fun than learning about animals and even getting a chance to touch them and hear what sound they really do make! No registration is required.

TUESDAY, JULY 22

1 p.m.

Bleach Pen T-Shirt

Join us as we transform an ordinary T-shirt into something you’ll want to wear every day! For grades 2 to 12. Registration is required. Please call to reserve your space.

SATURDAY, JULY 26

1 p.m.

Stardust Vase

Come make a beautiful stardust vase to light up your room! For grades 2 to 12. Registration is required. Please call to reserve your space.

TUESDAY, JULY 29

1 p.m.

Denver Dumb Friends League - How to Meet a Dog

“Is it always safe to pet a dog? This course teaches children how to meet a dog by practicing some basic steps. They discover what an animal’s body posture may be communicating about how he or she is feeling and how respecting an animal’s feelings will keep everyone safe.” This program is for kids K – 5th grade. No registration is required.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 5

1 p.m.

Face Painting with Nancy Avalon

Have your face painted by artist Nancy Avalon. Due to the popularity of this program, please arrive on time to be sure you get a turn! All ages. No registration is required.


"The Children’s Library began a “Vacation Reading Program” during the summer of 1921 as a way to interest kids in reading over the summer. That tradition continues every summer with Denver Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Program. Now the program consists of three separate programs--Read With Me for babies and preschoolers, a kids' program for children in Kindergarten through grade 5, and a teen program for grades 6 through 12. Each of these programs offers rewards for reading independently or with an adult, as well as special events at locations all over the city during the summer." (Denver Public Library website)