Like everything in libraries, the summer library program is something that needs to be tailored to the community your library is in, as well as the capacity of staff and budget. Each library will have a unique approach. Here are some tools and resources.  Please remember to reach out to Leah at IFLS if you want more support in thinking about your summer program!

Collaborative Summer Library Program

Wisconsin is a part of this multi-state project and gives you access to a jam-packed planning manual (made possible with funds from the Institute for Museum and Library Services.) The 2025 theme is Color Our World. The manuals, featuring illustrations by Mike Mullan, include illustrations, promotional materials and ideas, program ideas for all ages, booklists and more.  You can choose whatever theme you want to use for your library’s programs, using this theme is optional.  No matter the theme you choose you can find useful nuggets in the manuals!

• Link to the CSLP home page
• Link to the CSLP manual download page–submit a HelpDesk Ticket or conatact Leah for the code you’ll need to access the manuals

Check out the recording of this year’s CSLP Summer Symposium, with a keynote presentation by Mychal Threets, plus sessions on marketing and creative programming with process art

Upcoming themes:

2026 is Unearth a Story and will focus on dinosaurs, archaeology, and paleontology with illustrations by Brian Floca.

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Other Resources

Here are a list of resources to support developing excellent summer library programming.

• Performers  
• Programming Kits or any kits that promote collaboration and/or kindness. On this page we’ve share a selection of kits we curated that fit well with the All Together Now theme.
• Doing Good Together is a website chock-full of meaningful family-oriented volunteer projects and suggestions for hosting a Service Fair. 
• Learning Beyond:  21st Century Summer and Out of School Time Programs for Youth (Association for Library Service to Children) is a 35-page resource with suggestions about designing and evaluating programs, creating partnerships, and lots of great case studies. 
• 2025 In-Person Summer Library Program Workshops!  Join your colleagues for a fun afternoon of playful art projects that you can adapt for any age or ability level, plus discussions about tweaks to programs and services this summer to make them more accessible to people with disabilities, rounding things off with a chance to discuss topics you choose with your colleagues!  Plus a tour of some cool library spaces.  Register here.   Choose one workshop:
  • March 25, 1-3:30, Menomonie Public Library
  • April 2, 1-3:30, Rusk County Community Library (Ladysmith)
  • April 3, 1-3:30, Somerset Public Library

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