South Florida libraries plan online programs for animal-themed fun this summer
Published: May 26, 2021
By: Jennifer Jhon
Animal lovers and book lovers are in for a treat during the Tails and Tales Summer Reading Program, happening online at the Broward County and Miami-Dade County libraries.
The annual Summer Learning Program is a series of free, fun, online events designed to teach, entertain and inspire readers of all ages. This year’s “Tails and Tales” theme includes free virtual programs focusing on animals and nature, as well as events such as trivia contests, crafts, puppet shows, performances, wildlife education and more.
Summer at Your Library also features free “grab and go” meals at participating libraries in Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
In Broward County, the summer reading program includes giveaways for those who register at http://www.broward.org/Library/Pages/Summer.aspx and then complete reading challenges, attend virtual events or complete activities. Prizes include rewards from the Museum of Discovery and Science, Miami Children’s Museum, Water Taxi, Monster Mini Golf, Butterfly World, Everglades Holiday Park, Miami Seaquarium, Miami Heat, Florida Panthers Shake Shack, Zoo Miami, and more.
Summer at Your Library: Tails and Tales kicks off in Broward County with the 16th Annual Children’s BookFest on Saturday, June 5, with “Let’s Draw with Bob Shea!” from 11 a.m. to noon and “The Magical Bookstore,” a performance by Fantasy Theatre Factory, from 1 to 2 p.m. Learn more at http://www.broward.org/Library.
On July 17 at 2 p.m., the library is hosting “Caturday with the Cat Daddy, Jackson Galaxy,” from Animal Planet’s hit show “My Cat From Hell.” This online event is part of the Broward Library’s Cats and Dogs Programs. Register at http://www.broward.org/Library/Events/Pages/default.aspx.
Because of COVID-19 restrictions, the Miami-Dade library program is not including giveaways, but its Tails and Tales event calendar is filling up.
A Virtual STEAM Fest for all ages is planned Saturday, June 12, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Explore a world of science and help kick off the Summer Reading Challenge during this live Zoom event, which will teach fascinating facts about turtles, fish, Florida panthers and more. Space is limited, and registration is required at http://www.mdpls.org/events.
