The Great Bend Public Library’s Summer Library Program, “A Universe of Stories,” is almost here. We hope you will join us for the library’s kickoff event, which is on Friday, May 31. The Kansas Cosmosphere will be setting up activity stations and presenting several programs between 12:00-5:00 p.m., and Karen Land and her sled dog, Noggin, will help you learn more about sled racing and the Iditarod Trail at 5:30 p.m.

The library is excited to announce a new program that will provide free snacks during June and July to children and teens! The Public Library is teaming up with USD 428 to help feed anyone from the ages of 1-18 years each weekday afternoon. The snacks will be provided by the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) as part of its Summer Food Service Program. Each day’s snack will consist of some milk and a grain-based snack, and be available on weekdays (Monday through Friday) from 3:30-4:00 p.m. The program will be available from Monday, June 3 through Friday, July 26.

We know how important it is for children to receive proper nutrition, but during summer months it can be especially difficult for children to get the food that they need to grow and be healthy. The library and school district want to see children thrive, and hope that this new snack program can make a positive impact on our community. USD 428 is also offering breakfast and lunch meals at certain locations, dates, and times throughout the summer (please contact the USD for more information on the meals).

Because the program is funded by the USDA, there are very specific rules we are required to follow. We may serve only between the times of 3:30-4:00 p.m., and must begin and end serving exactly at those times, even if there are lines of people waiting. The snacks are available to anyone, regardless of income level, as long as they are between the ages of 1-18 years old. Children are not able to directly share snacks with others, but if they have unopened snacks they may place them on a “sharing table.” Please note that adults are not allowed to take snacks, and cannot eat snacks taken by children. Snacks cannot be taken outside of the room, and must be either consumed or left there. USD 428 and the Great Bend Public Library are equal opportunity providers. Thank you for your understanding in helping us continue to keep our location compliant!

See the schedule below for the library’s upcoming activities. For more detailed information on any library events (including summer), programs, or resources, check out our website (www.greatbendpl.info), send us an email (gbcirc@greatbendpl.info), or call the front desk (620-792-2409). There are June and July calendars available in the library, in both English and Spanish. You can also “like” and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

Michael Adamyk is the Marketing and Technical Services Manager at the Great Bend Public Library. He can be reached by email at gbcirc@gmail.com.