“Sunshine Storyteller” Ina Buckner-Barnette (Photo – South Pasadena Library)
The South Pasadena Public Library invites the community to gather for another Wonderful Wednesday event on July 16, featuring the vibrant and inspiring Ina Buckner-Barnette, also known as the “Sunshine Storyteller.”
By News Desk
The event will kick off at 6:00 pm on the Oxley Street side of the Library Park and promises to be an unforgettable evening for attendees of all ages.
Ina Buckner-Barnette is an Emmy-winning actress, video producer, and renowned storyteller whose work has captivated audiences for over two decades. Known for her engaging performances, Buckner-Barnette combines international tales, interactive movement, and catchy songs to create a storytelling experience that is as educational as it is entertaining. Her performances transport audiences on a “magical carpet ride” filled with joy, laughter, and boundless imagination.
As the Sunshine Storyteller, Buckner-Barnette has built a devoted following across Southern California, performing at schools, community centers, and festivals. She continues to share her passion for storytelling in creative and meaningful ways, making her the perfect fit for South Pasadena’s family-friendly summer programming.
Following the Buckner-Barnette event, the Wonderful Wednesday series will continue with another event on July 23 at 6:00 pm. In addition to the Wednesday evening performances, the library offers ongoing summer programs for all ages, including storytimes, the Walk ‘N Talk Book Club, and the All Abilities Club, making it the perfect destination for family fun all season long.
Weekly Storytimes and Summer Programming
The Library’s summer programming also includes a wide array of storytimes designed to promote early literacy and social development. Storytimes will be held every week until August 2, offering a fun way for children to develop cognitive and physical skills while practicing social behavior in a supportive setting.
- Preschool Storytime (for 3- to 5-year-olds):
Tuesdays at 10:30 am – 11:00 am - Toddler Storytime (for 1- to 3-year-olds):
Thursdays at 10:30 am – 10:50 am and 11:00 am – 11:20 am - Family Storytime (for all ages):
Saturdays at 10:30 am – 11:00 am
In addition to storytimes, the Library will host two adult programs this summer: the Walk ‘N Talk Book Club and the All Abilities Club (AAC). The Walk ‘N Talk Book Club meets on July 9 at 9:00 am in front of the Library on Oxley Street, with registration required in advance at southpasadenaca.gov/register. The AAC will meet on July 11 and August 8 at 10:00 am in the Library’s Community Room, 1115 El Centro Street. This program is open to adults with disabilities and offers a welcoming environment for social connection and community engagement.
Summer Reading Program: Keep Reading and Win Prizes
The Library’s Summer Reading Program will run through August 2, encouraging readers of all ages to log their reading and visit the library to claim exciting prizes. The program is not only fun but also vital for learning retention, as research shows that reading for at least 20 minutes a day helps combat the “summer slide” and improves literacy skills for children and teens. This initiative keeps young minds engaged and fosters a lifelong love of reading.
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