Kids Unleash Creativity in ‘Color Our World’ This Summer

The Community Library Sedona is set to kick off its 2025 Summer Reading Program on May 21. The event will feature free ice cream from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., followed by an Astronomy Night afterparty from 8 to 9 p.m., hosted by the Sirius Lookers. Attendees can look forward to high-powered telescopes offering stunning views of the night sky.

The initiative aims to help children under 17 sustain their reading skills throughout summer. Youth Services Manager Viviane Kraus emphasizes the importance of participation. “Kids should be sure to take part in the summer reading program because, No. 1, it’s fun to read,” she stated. “And No. 2, it keeps kids reading at their grade level over the summer.” Kraus hopes the program will inspire kids to discover new stories and connect with peers.

Participants will need to log their reading minutes starting May 21, with the submission window open from July 20 to 26. To qualify for prize drawings, logs must be turned in by July 26. According to the Arizona Secretary of State, last year, 120,136 children participated, collectively reading over 118.2 million minutes.

This year’s theme, “Color Our World,” will feature contributions from local artists. Kraus noted, “We’re excited about everything we are offering.” Local artists, including Sara Horton from West Sedona School, will engage children through art and craft activities.

The closing celebration for “Color Our World” is scheduled for July 30 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Attendees can enjoy free food and a chance to win over 50 prizes from local businesses. The event will also showcase artists from Sedona’s Artist in the Classroom program.

Several art programs are planned, including:

• Color Our World Mini-Art Show Workshop: June 2 & 16, 2 to 4 p.m.
• Face Painting Classes: Every Wednesday in June, 2 to 3 p.m.
• Cross-Stitching with Jana Anderson: June 7 & July 5, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
• Teen Sign Decorating (Ages 10 to 17): June 12 & July 10, 2 to 4 p.m.
• Create Your Own Mosaic: June 14, 1 to 2 p.m.
• Sun Catchers with Cindy Mahon (Ages 6 to 12): June 17, 2:45 to 4 p.m.
• Lantern Making with Kimberly Sager (Ages 6–12): June 21, 1 to 3 p.m.
• Create Dream Catchers with Sara Horton (Ages 6 to 12): June 24, 1 to 2 p.m.
• Tween/Teen Yoga and Crafts with Kimberly Sager: June 27, 3 to 4 p.m.
• Make Christmas Ornaments with Maria Bowers (Ages 6 to 12): June 30, 2 to 3 p.m.
• Weave Your Own Potholder with Nancy Wilson: July 12, 1 to 2 p.m.; advance registration required.

Special events include:

• Community Adopt-A-Paw and Movie with the Sedona Humane Society: May 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Moonlight the Owl: May 30, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
• Teen Cooking with Kimberly: June 18 & July 16, 4:30 to 6 p.m.; advance registration required.
• Cartooning with Mr. Jan[imal]: July 9, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
• Free acting camp by Missoula Children’s Theatre: Auditions on July 21, with performances on July 26. Registration at 10 a.m. at West Sedona School multipurpose room.

For more information about the Community Library Sedona and a comprehensive list of summer programs, visit communitylibrarysedona.libcal.com.