Dunlap Library Launches Summer Reading Program
By Jill Schaben
Harrison County Times-Reporter
The Dunlap Public Library is gearing up for a lively and engaging summer as it announces its upcoming Summer Reading Program, designed not only to entertain but to keep young minds active while school is out.
Research consistently shows that children who continue reading throughout the summer are more likely to maintain — and even improve — their literacy skills, while those who don’t can experience the “summer slide,” losing valuable progress made during the school year. Programs like Dunlap’s aim to make reading fun, interactive and accessible, helping children build a lifelong love of books while strengthening comprehension, vocabulary and critical thinking skills.
This year’s lineup blends literacy with hands-on experiences, music and imaginative play, giving children multiple ways to connect with stories and learning.
The free series kicks off at 10 a.m. on June 3 with a high-energy performance by Conductor Jack, an Emmy Award-winning children’s musician and educator known for appearances on PBS Kids. Blending vintage children’s music with interactive fun, Conductor Jack will bring instruments, puppets and a lively “dance party” atmosphere to the library. Performing in his signature train hat and overalls, he introduces young audiences to music through guitar, ukulele, harmonica and more, creating an engaging experience for preschool and early elementary-aged children.
On June 10, the Harrison County Nature Center will present an educational program focused on how seeds travel. Children will learn the five methods of seed dispersal, dissect maple seeds and even create their own “helicopter” seeds to test how far they can fly — combining science exploration with reading and discovery.
The excitement continues June 17 with a unique, imaginative experience featuring animatronic dragons. During the program, inventor and time traveler Brock Barnabas will recruit children for a medieval adventure, where they’ll learn how to manage an overpopulation of dragons. Combining storytelling with science-based concepts, the program invites kids to both “defend against” and tame dragons using creative techniques and inventions.
The series wraps up June 24 with “All Aboard Storytime and Train Rides.” Designed for children ages 3 and older, the event includes a train-themed reading session followed by a visit to the Express Train Show, offering a fun and interactive conclusion to the month’s activities.
The Dunlap Library encourages families to take advantage of the full program, noting that even small amounts of daily reading can make a significant difference in a child’s academic success. By pairing books with engaging events, the program helps reinforce that reading is not just a school activity, but something that can be enjoyed all summer long.
All programs will be held at the Dunlap Public Library, located at 102 S. 10th St. in Dunlap. Events are free and open to the public, and families are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact the library at 712-643-5311.
