Willmar Public Library | Children Services

Children Services

🌱 Plant a Seed – Read! 🌻
2026 Summer Reading Program

June 1st through August 21st
We are so excited for our Summer Reading Program here at the Willmar Public Library!
Our theme this year is Plant a Seed, Read! It will run from June 1 through August 21,
and there will be programs for patrons of all ages. Read and attend events to earn prizes!
We will have a number of special events for children, teens, and adults throughout the summer
to keep everyone engaged in reading, learning, and staying active.
The more you read and participate, the better your chances are to earn one of our grand prizes!
Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and keep an eye on our website for announcements and registration information.
Prizes and programs made possible with support from our sponsors:
Friends of the Willmar Public Library
Janning ENT
Jennie-O
Lulu Bean’s
Willmar Community Foundation
Prairielands Library Exchange
Healthy Fusion
MN Clean Water & Land Legacy Amendment
Marcus Construction

Wriggle and Read Storytime

Wednesdays at 10 am
This program has stories, songs, and playtime for littles!
Best for kids 0-3.

Tales and Tails

Tuesday, July 14 | 10:00 am
Multipurpose Room
Join us for a special event with Hawk Creek Animal Shelter!
We’ll read, talk about animal care, and hang out
with some cuddly pets together!

Tween/Teen Succulent Terrarium
Art with Meredith Semel*

Wednesday, July 15 | 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Visiting Artist Meredith Semel will teach you how to make
a living work of art in this Succulent Terrarium Art program.
You will be given all the materials you need: a glass container,
rocks, succulents, etc. that you can arrange to make a work
of beautiful design all on your own. This is best for ages 8 – 18.
Please register in advance so we can plan the proper amount
of supplies. Register online here

This project is funded in part or in whole with money from
Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage fund.

LEGO Club

Wednesday, August 5 | 3:30 pm
Test your creativity and skills! Join us for free-building
or use a kit to make a LEGO creation!

Story and a Snack

Thursday, August 6 | 3:30 pm
Book and Cook has evolved into a Story and a Snack!
Calling all kids who love books and food! We
will read a picture book as a group followed
by a tasty snack to share. Best for
kindergarten-grade 3 accompanied by an adult.
Registration required.

Movie Matinee:
Toy Story 4

Friday, August 7 | 3:30 pm
at the Willmar Community Center
“Buzz” on in for a good movie at the library!
This month’s movie is Toy Story 4!
Popcorn and lemonade will be provided!

Tween/Teen Paint & Pops*

Wednesday, August 12 | 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Join us for an afternoon of painting! Create your own
individual artwork with acrylic paints on canvas. Enjoy
different flavors of pop and popcorn as a treat. Supplies
are limited so registration is required. This event, for
teens ages 10-18, is made possible by the Prairielands
Library Exchange.
Register online here

This project is funded in part or in whole with money from
Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage fund.

ECFE at the Library

Friday, August 21 | 10:00 am
In the Multipurpose Room
Kiddos of all ages are welcome to enjoy some stories with Miss Rachel on the last day of the Summer Reading Program!