South Pasadena Library (Photo – FriendsOfTheSouthPasLibrary)
South Pasadena’s Summer Reading Program is set to return in 2026 with a full slate of activities, performances, and literacy‑boosting fun for all ages. The South Pasadena Public Library announced that this year’s program will run from June 6 through July 18, inviting children, teens, and adults to sign up in person, read throughout the summer, and earn prizes, including chances to draw tickets for a free Kindle.
By News Desk
The season will open with a Kick‑Off Party on Saturday, June 6, from 3:00 to 5:00 pm on the Oxley Street side of Library Park. The celebration will include Kona Ice, face painting, balloon animals, a nail polish station, and on‑site registration for the Summer Reading Program. Families can expect a lively afternoon designed to spark excitement for the weeks ahead.
A major highlight of the summer is the return of the Library’s Wonderful Wednesday series beginning June 10. Each week will feature a visiting performer offering an interactive, family‑friendly show. The lineup includes:
- Captain Tall Tale: Standing at 8’3”, this towering entertainer brings dance, music, and circus tricks to the Oxley Street side of Library Park on June 10 at 6:00 pm.
- Ranger Jack’s Music and Puppet Show: A musical performance filled with comedic animal puppets, scheduled for June 17 at 6:00 pm on the Oxley Street side of Library Park.
- Wild Wonders: Scientists will introduce live animals and share insights about the natural world on June 24 at 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm in the Library Community Room. Wristbands are required and limited to four per household, available starting at 10:00 am on the day of the event.
- The Billy Bonkers Magic Show: A high‑energy magic performance on July 1 at 6:00 pm on the Oxley Street side of Library Park.
- POWERHOUSE Percussive Dance: A fusion of tap, clogging, Irish step, and stomp, taking place July 8 at 6:00 pm on the El Centro Street side of Library Park.
- Jungle Drum Circles with Chazz Ross: An interactive drumming safari featuring African djembe drums on July 15 at 6:00 pm on the Oxley Street side of Library Park.
Beyond weekly performances, the Library will continue to offer book clubs, storytimes, and additional programming throughout the summer. Full program details can be found on the Library’s website.
Library staff emphasize that summer reading is more than entertainment, it plays a crucial role in preventing the seasonal learning slide. Studies show that students who read at least 20 minutes a day maintain stronger literacy skills than those who read less, making the Summer Reading Program an important resource for families.
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