Take a look at Knapp Branch's exciting schedule for this year's Summer Reading Program, Color Our World. You can find information on how to participate in Summer Reading Challenges on our main Summer Reading Page.
Color Our World Summer Reading Kick-Off!
Tuesday, June 24, 4:00 – 7:00 pm
PBS Kids joins our Summer Reading Kick-Off party with a bounce house, squirt gun painting, puffy sidewalk chalk, portrait print making, butterfly hats, and a “secret guest.” Sign up for the Summer Reading Program and earn prizes all summer!
Sun-Kissed
Tuesday, June 3, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Labone Begum and Shuvomita Dey, two seniors from Hamtramck High school, have authored and illustrated Sun-kissed, a children's book about a Muslim girl and the importance of using sunscreen when outside. They will read their book and give some tips on the importance of staying safe in the sun.
Eid ul-Adha Celebration!
Thursday, June 12, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Join us at the Knapp Branch as we celebrate Eid ul-Adha with stories, songs, crafts, henna tattoos, and prizes! Bring your friends and family for an hour of fun, faith, and community.
Slime Workshop with Plastivan
Tuesday, July 1, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
What do slime, corn, whoopie cushions, water bottles, and diaper gel all have in common? In this fun, interactive program hosted by Plastivan, discover the fascinating world of plastics! Plus, you get to make SLIME! For kids ages 7 and up.
Universal Prevention Parent Workshop
Thursday, July 3, 6:30-7:30 pm
Bring your toddler and join us for an interactive workshop led by Universal Prevention for parents, guardians, and caregivers of children between the ages of 1-3. The workshop offers a variety of educational activities focusing on key development areas for toddlers. Attendees will receive a free tool kit, including a manual and gadgets for practicing social, cognitive, and motor skills at home.
The Smallest Fazoozoo Flum
Tuesday, July 8, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Nick Fugedi, a local teacher, musician, and author/illustrator, will share his new children’s book, The Smallest Fazoozoo Flum, a whimsical and imaginative story that encourages creativity and self-expression. Join us for a read aloud with a musical performance followed by an art activity! For kids ages 0-8.
Treekeeper’s Kids Storytime and Craft
Tuesday, July 15, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
This special storytime will focus on the benefits of trees, urban forestry, and tree equity from The Greening of Detroit, plus a craft!
Peg + Cat Experience (Ages 3 - 5)
Wednesday, July 16, 5:00 – 5:30pm
Join Peg and her lovable sidekick Cat as they solve problems and explore the world of early math. This session by Detroit PBS Kids will feature Peg + Cat video screenings, engaging math activities, and storytime with related books.
Color & Read with Dr. Seuss!
Tuesday, July 22, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Join Detroit Champions for Hope for a fun and interactive storytime and craft with Dr. Seuss! For kids ages 0-8.
Monarch Butterflies with a Park Ranger
Tuesday, July 29, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
A ranger from the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge will visit and introduce kids to monarch butterflies with a story and craft!
Odd Squad Experience (Ages 5-8)
Wednesday, July 30, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Step into the world of Odd Squad with Detroit PBS Kids! This hilarious and educational show helps kids build math skills while solving weird and wacky mysteries. We’ll bring Odd Squad to life with video clips, hands-on activities, and fun themed books.
Adult Screening: Building the Reading Brain
Wednesday, July 30, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Calling all parents and caregivers! Join Detroit PBS for a special screening of Building the Reading Brain, an insightful program designed to help you understand how children learn to read. Explore the science of how the brain learns to read, expert advice from educators and neuroscientists, and practical tips to support your child’s literacy development.
Summer Celebration!
Tuesday, August 5, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra joins us for a special musical storytime, followed by a recognition and celebration of all the children who participated in our Summer Reading Program!
Happening Throughout the Summer
Boy’s Gaming Club
Fridays, June 13, 20, 27; July 11, 18, 25; August 1 and 8, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Boys (8+) bring your friends and get your game on! Join us for Wii, Minecraft, Fortnite, Roblox, LEGOs, board games, cards, and snacks!
Girl’s Maker Club
Mondays, June 23 – August 4, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Girls (8+) bring your friends for a fun and creative time at the library!
- June 23: Shrinky Dink Keychains
- June 30: DIY Tie-Dyed Totes
- July 7: Make Your Own Erasers & Other Clay Creations
- July 14: Stained Glass Vase
- July 21: Recycled Water Bottle Flowers
- July 28: Popsicle Stick Bird Feeder
- August 4: DIY Jewelry
Kids Paint Party
Wednesdays, June 25, July 9, July 23, and August 6, 10:30 – 11:30 am
Explore fun and unique ways to make art—prepare to get messy! For ages 3-7.
- June 25: Tape & Balloon Painting/Painting with Rubber Bands
- July 9: Popped Bubble Art/Salt Painting
- July 23: Paintsicles/Splat Art
- August 6: Marble Painting/ Potato Stamping
Storytime with Ms. Ali
Thursdays, June 26; July 10 & 24; and August 7, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Special evening family storytimes with songs, fun activities, and crafts!
- June 26: The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Butterfly Suncatchers)
- July 10: The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister (Bubble Wrap Art)
- July 24: A Snake in the Paint by Annie Sweet (Rock Painting)
- August 7: If I Built a Town by Chris Van Dusen (LEGO Stamping)
Storytime in the Park
Wednesdays, July 2, 16, and 30, 10:30 – 11:00 am
Enjoy color-inspired stories and movement activities together in the great outdoors! Bring the kids for storytime in the grassy area behind the library parking lot and then let them play in Jayne Park!
- July 2: Mouse Paint by Ellen Stoll Walsh/ We're Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen
- July 16: Mix It Up by Herve Tullet / Don't Push the Button! By Bill Cotter
- July 30: The Color Monster: A Story About Emotions by Anna Llenas / Wiggle by Doreen Cronin
Teen Girls Art Club
Thursdays, July 17 & 31, 6:00-7:30 pm
Hey girls (12+), at Teen Girls Art Club, we'll be creating beautiful art together! No experience needed. Grab your friends for a memorable evening of creating and laughter.
- July 17: Stained Glass Art Workshop
- July 31: Emoji Paint Workshop