Take a look at the Main Library's exciting schedule for this year's Summer Reading Program, Unearth a Story. You can find information on how to participate in Summer Reading Challenges on the Summer Reading Page.
This schedule lists programs for the Main Library, including Children's Library and HYPE Teen Center.
Children’s Library at Main
Annual Juneteenth Kid’s Rodeo
Wednesday, June 10, 3:00 – 7:00 pm
Join our friends from the Midwest Invitational Rodeo as we celebrate our annual Juneteenth Kid’s Rodeo at the Library! We’ll feature a lively country carnival with games, a petting zoo, line dance lessons and a special surprise for parents. And of course we’ll have pony rides! Sign up for Summer Reading and join in the fun! Kids of all ages are welcome.
World Cup Dino Jumbo Soccer Ball Challenge
Wednesday, June 17, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Celebrate the World Cup with a super fun challenge. We’ll have Dino heads and tails for kids to wear while they push their giant soccer ball to the finish line. World Cup crafts will follow the excitement. Kids of all ages are welcome.
Keith Haring Art Fun Day
Thursday, June 18, Noon – 2:00 pm
Join our friends from Wayne State University College of Fine, Performing, and Communication Arts, as we celebrate the art of Keith Haring. Children and teens will have the opportunity to create art using the famous figures of Keith Haring. Don’t miss this fun day that ties in with the official exhibit UNDERGROUND – Keith Haring: Subway Drawings at the Elaine L. Jacob Gallery on view through August 15, 2026.
Dino Fossil Digging and Excavation
- Tuesday, June 23, 2:00 pm
Learn about Paleontology and prehistoric plants by digging and excavating plaster-of-Paris plant “fossils” and coloring them to take home. - Wednesday, Jun 24, 2:00 pm
Learn about Trilobites, how they lived, then dig and excavate plaster-of-Paris Trilobite “fossils” to color and to take home. - Thursday, June 25, 2:00 pm
Learn about Ammonites, how they lived, then dig and excavate plaster-of-Paris Ammonite shell “fossils” to color and to take home. - Friday, June 26, 2:00 pm
Learn about Jurassic fish, how they lived, then dig and excavate plaster-of-Paris fish “fossils” to color and to take home. - Saturday, June 27, 2:00 pm
Learn about T-Rex, Triceratops, and the Stegosaurus dinosaurs, where and how they lived. Then the kids can choose between a T-Rex, Triceratops, or a Stegosaurus plaster-of-Paris “fossil” to dig and excavate and then to color and to take home.
Build the Change: Human Impact – Saving Today’s Dinosaurs
Fridays, June 26 – July 31, Noon
Join
us for a 6-week LEGO building adventure in partnership with the LEGO
Foundation and the Natural History Museum in London! Kids will explore
how human actions impact
the planet by focusing on birds—often called “today’s dinosaurs.”
Through creative building challenges, participants will design solutions
to help protect wildlife and the environment. The program wraps up with a special showcase of creations on July 31! For ages 6-12.
Bugs on Wheels
Monday, June 29, 11:00 am – Noon
Join
us for a special visit from Bug on Wheels, a unique hands-on
educational experience all about the incredible world of insects and
arthropods! Participants will have the opportunity to get up close with
fascinating specimens, including taxidermy displays and even LIVE bugs.
This will be a ticketed event, and we cannot accommodate summer camps.
Intended for ages 4-12.
Little Explorers Bug Hunt
Tuesday, June 30, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
A fun-filled Binocular Craft and Bug Hunt designed for young explorers will have kids building their own pretend binoculars and use them to spot bugs and other tiny discoveries during an exciting search. For ages 3-10.
Bug Sensory Garden
Wednesday, July 1, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Step
into a world of tiny wonders with Bug Sensory Gardens. Kids can dig
into textured garden bins, discover hidden bugs, and create fun critter
crafts while learning how these small creatures help our environment. For ages 4-12.
Unearth a Story with Mad Science
Wednesday, July 1, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
In this interactive and high-energy show, kids
become paleontologists on a journey through time to uncover the hidden
tales of dinosaurs and the creatures that inspired myths and legends!
From digging up fossils and examining skulls,
to comparing animal adaptations and recreating dinosaur sounds, kids
explore how scientists use clues from the past to piece together the
story of life on Earth. It’s a fun and fascinating blend of science, imagination, and discovery!
A Bug’s Life Movie Matinee
Wednesday, July 1, 4:00 – 6:00 pm
This family-friendly program offers a chance to laugh, unwind, and enjoy a big adventure on the small screen with friends as we watch “A Bug’s Life.” For ages 4-12.
Belle Isle Conservancy
Thursday, July 2, 11:30 am – Noon
Step back in time in this fascinating,
hands-on program with the Belle Isle Conservancy as they bring along
plants and insects that date back to the age of dinosaurs.
Discover how these ancient species have survived for millions of years,
explore their unique features up close, and learn about the ecosystems
they once thrived in. For ages 6-12.
Pinecone Birdseed Craft
Friday, July 3, 11:00 am – Noon
Get creative with our Pinecone Bird Feeder Craft! Using simple, natural materials, make your own bird-friendly feeder to take home and hang outside. Please note,
some materials used in this program may contain or have come into
contact with nut and seed products. Children with nut allergies should
take caution.
LEGOS Build the Change, Saving Today’s Dinosaurs: Tackling Habitat Loss
Friday, July 3, Noon – 1:00 pm
Discover how human activities can impact
birds and explore creative, real-world ways we can help protect them.
This engaging learning session encourages thoughtful discussion and
environmental awareness for young participants. Afterwards, children can
take part in a hands-on upcycled craft and choose to create their own
bird feeder to support local wildlife.
Summer Lit Lab Pop-Up (Wayne RESA)
Tuesdays, July 7-28, Noon – 2:00 pm
Join Wayne RESA with MiFamily
Region 10 this July for the Summer Lit Lab Pop-Up—a hands-on,
family-friendly experience where science, creativity, and literacy come
together. Children ages 4 - 12 and caregivers will explore engaging learning stations that include:
- WRESA STEM Discovery: Tools and problem‑solving kits from Wayne RESA
- Nutty Scientist Labs: High‑energy, hands‑on science experiments
- Author’s Corner: Write and design a comic book or original story
- Art & Design: Creative projects and interactive read‑alouds
- Take‑Home Kits: Free "kids-pick" book and family-facing resources
Weather & Weather Safety with NOAA
Tuesday, July 7, 2:00 pm
Meet a real expert from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)! Learn what it’s
like to study weather for a living while exploring important topics
like weather patterns, climate, and how to stay safe during severe
conditions. For ages 6 and up.
Make Your Own Rain Gauge
Tuesday, July 7, 6:00 pm
Become
a backyard scientist! In this hands-on STEAM program, kids will learn
how meteorologists measure rainfall and then build their own rain gauge
using simple materials like plastic bottles, rocks, and sand. Take it
home and start tracking the weather right outside your door! For ages 6 and up.
Weather Hunters
Wednesday, July 8, 1:00 pm
Join us for an exciting look at extreme weather! We’ll watch an episode of PBS’s Weather Hunters and
learn how to spot the difference between thunder and lightning. Kids
will also discover a cool trick to figure out how far away a storm
is—just like real weather experts! For ages 5-12.
SciStarter: Become A Citizen Scientist
Wednesday, July 8, 6:00 pm
Did you know you can help real scientists from your own neighborhood? In
this interactive program, families will explore the world of citizen
science and learn how to participate in meaningful research projects all year long. Discover fun, hands-on ways to make a difference in your community! For ages 8 and up and their families.
Dino Habitat Builders
Saturday, July 11, 2:00 pm
Create
your own miniature dinosaur world! Using a wooden frame, sand, and a
variety of fun miniatures, kids will design and build a prehistoric
habitat for their dinos to explore. Let your imagination run wild as you craft a tiny landscape full of adventure to take home! For ages 6-12.
Paper Chain Snake Craft
Monday, July 13, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Create your own sssslithering snake in this fun, hands-on craft! Participants will design and assemble a paper chain snake to take home. Perfect for kids of all ages (younger children may need adult assistance).
Michigan Reptiles with MDNR
Tuesday, July 14, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Discover
the amazing reptiles that call Michigan home! Join the Michigan
Department of Natural Resources to learn about native species, their
habitats, and what makes them unique. For kids of all ages.
Dino Egg Discovery
Wednesday, July 15, 5:00 – 6:00 pm
Uncover
your very own mystery dinosaur in this hands-on excavation adventure!
Participants will use tools to uncover a baking soda “dino egg” and reveal a surprise mini dinosaur to take home. For kids of all ages.
Thursday Storytime: Dinosaurs & Reptiles
Thursday, July 16, 11:00 – 11:30 am
RAWR! Join us in the Children’s Library for a special dinosaur and reptile themed storytime. Designed for preschool-aged children, but all kids are welcome!
Reptile Tracks & Fossils Adventure with Huron-Clinton Metroparks
Thursday, July 16, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Discover the world of reptiles—past and present! Learn to identify animal
tracks, explore how fossils form, and create your own air-dry clay
fossil. Perfect for curious kids of all ages (younger children may need
adult assistance).
Exotic Zoo
Friday, July 17, 3:00 – 5:00 pm
Exotic Zoo is a traveling zoo that allows kids to learn all about wild animals from various habitats. Kids will have the chance to see, feel, feed and observe animals from all over the world—and this year, there's even more to see! Kids of all ages are welcome.
Dino Escape Route
Monday, July 20, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Hosted by 826michigan, explore dinosaurs through fossils and photos, then dream up a fun escape plan just in case their dino friend turns out to be less than friendly! For kids ages 8-12.
Ming Louie’s Magic Show
Monday, July 20, 2:00 pm
Join us for a lively, interactive magic show where kids are amazed by dino-themed
tricks, playful illusions, and prehistoric surprises! With plenty of
laughs and audience participation, this fun-filled event brings
dinosaurs and magic together for an unforgettable library experience.
All ages welcome.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum Presents: Living Fossils
Tuesday, July 21, 2:00 pm
Travel back millions of years to meet animals whose traits connect them to prehistoric life. Participants observe
live animals up close while learning how adaptations and survival
strategies have allowed these species to thrive through time. For ages 5 and up.
Michelle Moore Presents: Cookie Decorating
Wednesday, July 22, 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm
In this hands-on class
kids decorate dinosaur-shaped cookies using colorful icing and tasty
toppings. Participants will get creative with designs and take home
their delicious prehistoric treats! For ages 8-12.
Dinosaur Painting Craft Followed by a Movie
- Thursday July 23, 2:00 pm
Children will paint their own colorful dinosaur using easy, step-by-step guidance, then add details like scales, spikes, and a prehistoric background. It’s a hands-on activity that encourages imagination, creativity, and a love of art and dinosaurs. Perfect for young artists of all skill levels! Ages 7-12 - Thursday, July 23, 3:00 pm
Enjoy a screening of Sonic the Hedgehog for all ages.
Lego Challenge
Friday, July 24, Noon
A
fun, hands-on LEGO challenge where kids use their imagination to build
creative designs based on exciting prompts. Participants will explore
problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity, while bringing their unique ideas to life!
“I Spy” Craft
Friday, July 24, 2:00 pm
A
fun, sensory craft where kids create their own “I Spy” bottle filled
with colorful materials and tiny hidden objects. Participants will enjoy
searching, discovering, and taking home a playful activity they can use again and again! For ages 8-12.
Dinosaur Movie
Friday, July 24, 3:00 pm
A
family-friendly movie screening featuring a fun dinosaur adventure on
the big screen! Kids can relax, enjoy the story, and experience
prehistoric excitement together in a welcoming library setting. All ages
welcome.
Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, July 25, All Day
Join us at the library for a fun Dinosaur themed scavenger hunt. All ages welcome.
Giganotosaurus: Dino Kart
Monday July 27, Noon – 2:00 pm
Come and play interactive dinosaur games, including Giganotosaurus: Dino Kart with us. No prior experience is needed. For kids ages 5 – 12.
Dino Kahoot
Tuesday July 28, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Join us for a fun-filled game of Dinosaur Kahoot! Kids will answer exciting dino questions, compete with friends, and win fun prizes. Guardians will need to have a smartphone with their child to play, and we will provide laptops while supplies last. For ages 7-12.
Dino-mania!!!! Meet a Walking, Roaring, Giant T-Rex!
Wednesday, July 29, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Have you ever dreamed of hanging out with a real T-Rex or maybe a baby Triceratops? Join us for an experience you’ll never forget as we will have a walking, roaring dinosaur and a baby dino here at the library! You won’t want to miss your chance for an exciting adventure with our guest “paleontologists” and their special friends. Kids of all ages are welcome.
Dino Roblox
Wednesday July 29, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Explore and play dinosaur-themed games on Roblox. For ages 7-12.
Augmented Reality 4D Dinosaurs
Thursday July 30, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Join
us for an interactive dinosaur workshop where kids bring prehistoric
creatures to life using augmented reality flashcards! Guardians will
need to assist children using their smartphones. For ages 5–12.
Dino Trivia
Friday July 31, Noon – 1:00 pm
Fun trivia where kids will answer simple questions about dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex, helping them learn cool facts while having fun. For ages 7-12.
Scratch Coding Dinosaurs
Saturday August 1, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Join
us for Scratch Coding Dinosaurs. In this fun, hands-on program, kids
will learn the basics of coding by creating their own animations using
Scratch’s easy drag-and-drop tools—no prior experience needed. For kids
ages 7–12.
HYPE Teen Center at Main
All programs that take place in HYPE are for teens ages 13 – 18.
Video Game Day
Monday June 22, Noon – 2:00 pm
Join us at our HYPE Teen center playing video games, including Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox, Legos, and board games.
Podcasting 101
Tuesday June 23, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Join us in discovering the ins and outs of quality audio podcasting. No prior experience is needed.
Music Studio Basics
Wednesday June 24, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Learn how to use our Music studio equipment in our HYPE Teen Center and unleash your musical creativity! No prior experience is needed.
3D Printing Workshop
Thursday June 25, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Want to create your own 3D Prints? Learn how to create and print your own designs using our Bambu A1 3-D Printers. No prior experience is needed.
3D Printing Workshop
Friday June 26, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Want to create your own 3D Prints? Learn how to create and print your own designs using our Bambu A1 3-D Printers. No prior experience is needed.
Cricut Machine Making 101
Saturday June 27, Noon – 2:00 pm
Learn to turn your ideas into real creations! In this fun, hands-on class, you’ll learn how to use a Cricut machine to design and make your own custom projects. No prior experience is needed, just bring your creativity!
Marbled Mugs
Monday, June 29, 2:00 pm
Join us for a fun, hands-on
class where teens learn to create unique marbled mugs using colorful
paint techniques. Participants will experiment with swirling patterns,
blend vibrant designs, and leave with a personalized mug to take home—no
experience needed, just creativity!
Tissue Paper Painting
Tuesday, June 30, 2:00 pm
A hands-on
class where teens use tissue paper and simple techniques to design
colorful, layered artwork. Participants will explore blending, texture,
and composition while creating their own unique pieces to take home—no
experience needed!
No Sew Tote Bags
Wednesday, July 1, 2:00 pm
In this fun, beginner-friendly class teens create their own stylish tote bags—no sewing required!
Using simple cutting and tying techniques, participants will design and
customize a functional bag to take home. Please bring your own T-Shirt.
Scrap Book Tiles
Thursday, July 2, 2:00 pm
Join
us for a creative class where teens design personalized tile coasters
using scrapbook paper and simple crafting techniques. Participants will
mix patterns, colors, and textures to make unique, functional pieces to
take home—no experience needed!
Scratch Art
Friday, July 3, 2:00 pm
In this fun, hands-on
class teens create striking artwork by scratching designs into colorful
coated paper. Participants will experiment with patterns, textures, and
contrast to reveal vibrant images and take home their own unique
creations—no experience needed!
Jurassic Drones Summer Camp
A one-of-a-kind summer camp where kids explore the world of drones, dinosaurs, and the great outdoors!
- Monday, July 6, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
Learning the phonetic alphabet with dinosaur names for the alphabet while learning how to fly drones. - Tuesday, July 7, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
Track dinosaurs using air tags to see where the dinosaurs have travelled throughout the library. - Wednesday, July 8, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
Locating 3D printed fossil trilobites with metal detectors. - Thursday, July 9, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
Discover drone search and rescue. - Friday, July 10, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
Dinosaur and fossil location and excavation using drones.
Passive Puzzle Program
Monday, July 13, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Beat the summer heat and come chill and puzzle with us in HYPE.
Teen Movie Matinee
Tuesday, July 14, 4:00 – 6:00 pm
Enjoy a screening of The Story of Plastic, a powerful documentary that explores the global impact of plastic
pollution. This thought-provoking film sheds light on environmental
challenges and inspires action toward a more sustainable future. Snacks
will be provided.
DPL Teen Clothing Swap
Wednesday, July 15, 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Refresh
your style and discover something new at our Teen Clothing, Book, and
CD Swap! Bring gently used items to trade while enjoying music spun live
by our DJ and hanging out with friends. It’s
a fun, sustainable way to update your wardrobe and collection while
connecting with other teens in a lively atmosphere. No clothes to swap?
No problem. Free, gently used items will be donated by The ReVamp.
Green Living Science: Thrifted Planter Craft
Thursday, July 16, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Come hang out at the library and get a little crafty as we
turn thrifted planters into something cool and totally your own, then
plant something in them to take home. This eco-friendly workshop will be
hosted by Green Living Science.
Gratitude Seed Bomb Event
Friday, July 17, 11:00 am – Noon
Spread
positivity and grow something beautiful at our Teen Gratitude Seed Bomb
Activity! Participants will create their own seed bombs, incorporating
positive messages to share with the community.
Bedazzle It Up
Saturday, July 18, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
Get
ready to sparkle at Bedazzle It Up! Bring any item—clothes,
accessories, or personal belongings—and decorate it with gems, glitter,
and other craft supplies to make it uniquely yours.
Lego Education: Computer Science & AI
July 28 – 31, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Dive
into the world of coding and artificial intelligence using LEGO
Education tools! In this 4-day series, teens will explore key computer
science concepts like inputs and outputs, loops, and conditionals while
programming interactive builds. Each session includes two engaging
45-minute lessons designed to build skills, creativity, and confidence
in tech. For ages 11-18.