This summer, the Mt. Lebanon Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to dig in and discover something new. The 2026 Summer Reading Program, themed “Unearth a Story,” runs from June 8–July 31, with a full lineup of events, activities and incentives aimed at encouraging reading all summer long.
The program kicks off June 8 with sign-up opportunities in the main library. Families can stop by throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. to register, explore activity stations and get a first look at what’s in store.
A summer of discovery for kids
Young readers can expect a day packed with excitement at the June 8 kickoff, including a folder-decoration station, a dinosaur art station and a special interactive “mini museum” presented by the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.
Throughout the summer, children can track their reading, collect brag tags and work toward prizes — including a free book and coupons from local businesses when they achieve their reading goals. Bingo sheets add another layer of fun to help keep kids motivated.
Special guests and events will pop up all summer long, from visits with “Mr. McSlithers” and “The Bug Man” to fan-favorite programs such as Battle of the Books, Dino Karaoke and even cave painting. Organizers encourage families to monitor the library calendar for specific event dates. A summerlong America 250 display also will be featured throughout the program.
Teens get creative —
and competitive
Teens are encouraged to register in person and track their progress using reading logs, with an online option available through Beanstack. Participants will receive one paper log per person, and 10 hours of reading earns an entry into drawings for one of 10 $50 gift cards to local favorites including Uptown Coffee, Grandpa Joe’s, Learning Express, Panaderia Jazmin, Lebo Subs, Amy’s Bakery, Target, Hot Topic and Miniso.
Every teen who completes the program will receive a book of their choice along with coupons to Lebo Subs and the Hollywood Theater.
The teen kickoff event will feature henna tattoos, followed by a summer filled with hands-on programming. Highlights include a Tuesday evening table hockey league led by local instructor Tom Kearns, a plant biology session with the Allegheny Land Trust, and a Labubu clothing-making workshop led by Virginia Shields.
Additional in-house activities include building Zen gardens, creating wooden Dungeons & Dragons-inspired mimic monsters and the return of the custom Funko Pops event.
Adults invited to participate
Adult readers also are encouraged to join the fun by registering online, logging their reading and submitting book reviews for chances to win themed prize baskets. Curated booklists and displays throughout the library will provide inspiration for summer reading selections.
Two special events will round out the adult program: a Summer Reading Gathering on June 13 at 7 p.m. and an End-of-Summer Soirée on Aug. 4 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
With programs for children, teens and adults alike, this year’s Summer Reading initiative promises something for everyone. Whether discovering a new favorite author, exploring hands-on activities or simply enjoying a good book on a warm summer day, the library’s message is clear: there is always something new to unearth.
