Add Row
Add Element
cropper
update
ColumbusRise
Columbus Rise Logo
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Features
    • Business
    • Wellness
    • Family
    • Money
    • Tech
    • Culture
    • Events
    • Entertainment
June 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

Discover Exciting Summer Reading Programs Across Central Ohio Libraries!

Central Ohio library with summer reading programs display.

Summer Reading Adventure Awaits in Central Ohio!

The sun is shining, the days are long, and that can only mean one thing: it’s summer reading club time in Central Ohio! Families looking to combine fun, learning, and a splash of friendly competition will find an abundance of local libraries and bookstores offering exciting summer reading programs. With reward schemes that encourage reading, summer clubs cater to all ages, ensuring children and adults alike are recognized for their literary accomplishments.

Explore Your Options: Local Libraries Are Waiting!

Take a stroll through Columbus and discover a plethora of summer reading challenges hosted by splendid local libraries. Here’s a highlight reel from some of the top contenders:

Columbus Metropolitan Library: With a Summer Reading Challenge running from May 31 to July 31, readers of all ages can sign up at branches or online through the Beanstack App. Participants can track their progress to win fabulous prizes, including gift cards, books, and even a bike!

Worthington Libraries: Their 'Ticket to Read' program encourages participants to earn rewards for reading, attending programs, and engaging in fun DIY activities. The fun buzz begins on May 23 and runs until July 27.

Westerville Public Library: This library features a customizable reading goal. Those who reach their personal objectives will walk away with prizes and a chance at a grand prize from May 23 to July 31.

Each of these programs not only fuels the love for reading but also seamlessly integrates events and activities that bring families together to share the joys of literacy.

Bookstores Join the Fun!

Don’t forget about the local bookstores! They, too, have rolled out summer reading initiatives that match the excitement of the libraries. Aligning with a more interactive experience, bookstore programs often include engaging activities that further deepen the connection between young readers and their favorite stories.

Engagement Through Prizes: The Lure of Rewards!

Why are these programs so successful? Simple! Many of them incorporate an incentive structure that not only motivates kids to read but provides tangible rewards upon completion of certain milestones. Families are urged to participate because prizes can range from tickets to local attractions like Kings Island and Zoombezi Bay to freebies and discounts on future book purchases. This novel approach to engaging kids with reading offers immediate gratification while fueling a long-term love of literature.

Creating a Community of Readers

The impact of summer reading programs extends beyond just the individual. These challenges promote communal and family involvement, sparking conversations about shared stories that might be taking place at the dinner table. Parents not only engage with their children's progress but often revisit their own reading habits. What’s more inspiring than a household buzzing with stories waiting to be shared?

Getting Started: Simple Steps to Join

If your family wants to join in the summer reading fun, here’s a quick guide: sign up at your favorite local library or bookstore, choose a reading goal, track your reading through available apps or logs, and don’t forget to join in on programs and events!

Conclusion: A Call to Action to Read!

Summer Reading Clubs in Central Ohio are more than mere activities; they’re opportunities for families to bond, learn, and expand their horizons through books. So gather the family, choose those summer reads, and dive into the adventure that awaits in your local libraries and bookstores. Grab this chance to enrich your summer with reading challenges that will surely be memorable!

Family

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
10.16.2025

Experience Family-Friendly Fall Fun This Weekend in Columbus, Ohio

Update Celebrate Fall Family Fun in Columbus As the leaves turn and the air crisps, family-friendly events abound across Columbus this weekend. From lively autumn festivals to interactive educational activities, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to pick pumpkins or enjoy seasonal entertainment, mark your calendars for October 17-19! Here’s a guide to the most exciting happenings in the area. Explore Local Fall Festivals Fall in Columbus means vibrant festivals celebrating the season’s bounty. Families can enjoy activities such as hayrides, corn mazes, and apple picking at various local farms, which come alive in October. Check out the Township Farm Fall Festival for a day full of family fun with lots of games and tasty treats. Adventure Awaits at the Olentangy Caverns Head over to Olentangy Caverns to experience their Fall Fun Activity Area. Daily through October 31, kids and adults alike can engage in exciting activities like rubber duck races, scavenger hunts, and even a pumpkin bouncer! Plus, you might run into animal ambassadors from the Ohio Wildlife Center for an educational treat on Sunday. Thrilling Experiences at the Haunted Maze If you're looking to add a little spookiness to your weekend, the Haunted Maze at Hoover Gardens offers thrills for just $3 per person. It's an excellent way for families to embrace the Halloween spirit without going overboard. Discover Scarecrow Creations For a more laid-back adventure, stroll through Scarecrow City at Olde Reynoldsburg and JFK Park. Enjoy the creativity of local artists as you explore scarecrow creations throughout October. Join the Brick or Treat Monster Party If your kids are LEGO fans, don’t miss the Brick or Treat Monster Party at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus. Running daily through Halloween, the event features a special LEGO 4D Halloween movie, scavenger hunts, and games included in the regular admission price! Get Enchanted at the Wizards & Wands Festival If your family enjoys a dash of magic, visit the Westerville Public Library this October for their Wizards & Wands Festival. With themed areas and daily events, it really brings the world of magic to life. Explore the Minion Hunt in Grove City Inject a little fun into your weekend with a Minion Hunt in Grove City Town Center. Find all 14 minions hidden around the area and turn in your Minion Hunt Card for a prize by November 1! Pumpkins Aglow at Franklin Park Conservatory Make sure to check out the breathtaking Pumpkins Aglow event at the Franklin Park Conservatory from Wednesday through Sunday, where over a thousand illuminated pumpkins will light up your evening from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It’s a dazzling experience for the whole family! Don't Miss the Halloween Spooktacular Coffman Park in Dublin is hosting a fantastic Halloween Spooktacular on Thursday and Friday nights. Enjoy trick-or-treating in a safe environment while making unforgettable memories! Wrapping Up: Affordable Family Entertainment Awaits This weekend in Columbus is bursting with fun, engaging, and affordable family-friendly events. Whether you're looking to enjoy nature, get creative with crafts, or dive into fall festivities, there’s something for everyone. So gather your family and make the most of these exciting opportunities! Join in the Fun! Don’t wait—make plans to explore Columbus this weekend with your family. With so many activities to choose from, there’s no better time to enjoy the autumn spirit in our vibrant city!

10.15.2025

Why COSI is America’s #1 Science Museum for Families

Update Explore COSI: America’s Top Science Museum for Families COSI (The Center of Science and Industry) in Columbus, Ohio, holds a distinguished title as America’s #1 Science Museum, a testament to its engaging exhibits and family-friendly experiences. Voted as the top destination for science enthusiasts for four consecutive years, COSI offers families an unforgettable day of learning and fun. As someone who grew up visiting COSI frequently, I can confidently say it’s an adventure that continues to unfold with new discoveries for each visit. Creating Lifelong Memories at COSI My fond memories of COSI started when I was just a kid. With my parents taking me on annual trips, I vividly recall exploring exhibits while sharing lunch at the original Wendy’s nearby. Now, as a resident of Columbus, I cherish those traditions by visiting COSI with my children, making it a family affair that celebrates curiosity and learning. Classic Exhibits and New Attractions COSI is home to over 10 classic exhibits that have become staples for returning visitors. From the breathtaking Life exhibit showcasing real embryos to the nostalgic History of COSI exhibit that features a mine shaft ride from its previous downtown location, there’s something for everyone. My children have particularly enjoyed the interactive nature of the Gadgets Exhibit and the hands-on experience of the Driving Simulator in Energy Explorers, which mirrors their growing interests as they mature. Why Parents Love Little Kidspace One of the standout features for parents with toddlers is COSI’s little kidspace, a haven for kids in first grade and under. This area not only encourages imagination and active play but also includes a check-in/check-out system for enhanced safety, giving parents peace of mind. As my youngest approaches the age limit for this space, I feel bittersweet about him leaving, but I’m excited that COSI continues to evolve with diverse learning opportunities for older kids. Educational Experiences that Spark Interest COSI effectively merges fun with education, ensuring that children are not just entertained but enriched. The Ocean Exhibit and Space Exhibit captivate young minds with stunning visuals and interactive learning tools. Each exhibit nudges curiosity, encouraging kids to ask questions and seek answers, developing their minds while they engage with the fantastic world around them. Special Highlights for Your Visit When planning your trip, don’t forget to check out the Dinosaur Gallery that has drawn the fascination of dinosaur lovers (including my son!) for years. It’s not just a fun pastime, but an educational venture into ancient history that excites and inspires kids. And for fans of PBS, the WOSU exhibit on the second floor offers them a chance to meet their favorite characters and even create their own TV show. Tips for Navigating COSI To make the most out of your visit, consider purchasing a COSI membership. Not only do you save money in the long run, but it allows for spontaneous trips—a crucial feature for busy families. Arriving early will help you beat the crowds, meaning more time for your kids to explore without the rush. Most importantly, approaching the exhibits with an open mind makes every trip a uniquely enriching experience, helping shape a lifetime of learning. Embrace the Experience Together Visiting COSI is more than just an outing; it’s an opportunity to bond, explore, and ignite a passion for science in the next generation. Encourage your children to ask questions, be curious, and experience the wonder of discovery. The museum’s lively atmosphere makes science accessible and engaging, while parents share in the joy of learning alongside their kids. So gather your family, make a plan, and head to COSI—the adventures of learning and curiosity await! Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, COSI promises a day filled with exploration that will ignite imaginative thinking and enthusiasm about the world of science!

10.10.2025

Unleash Family Fun This Weekend at Fall Festivals in Columbus

Update Explore the Fall Fun: Family-Friendly Events in Columbus This Weekend As the vibrant hues of autumn paint the landscape, Columbus, Ohio, comes alive with a plethora of family-friendly activities. Whether you're in the mood for pumpkin picking, hayrides, or thrilling magical performances, this weekend promises to be nothing short of delightful for families across the city. Discover the Whimsical World of Fall Festivals The season of fall festivals is in full swing, with local farms rolling out an array of exciting activities. Families can enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and the annual pumpkin harvest, which foster not only fun but also community spirit. According to the 2025 Ultimate Guide to Fall Festivals, Farms & Family Fun, numerous farms around the region are opening their gates to families eager to embrace the essence of autumn. Adventurous Experiences Await at Olentangy Caverns For those seeking a more adventurous outing, head over to Olentangy Caverns. Open daily through October 31st, the Fall Fun Activity Area offers rubber duck races, scavenger hunts, and even a magical show featuring Magic Nate. Explore more for ways to enjoy the fall season with the family and discover the enchanted ambiance while creating memorable family moments. A Hauntingly Good Time: The Haunted Maze Get into the spirit of Halloween at Hoover Gardens where the Haunted Maze beckons adventurers of all ages. Priced affordably at $3 per person, it’s an excellent way for families to experience spooky fun without breaking the bank. Check their schedule to ensure you catch all the thrilling surprises throughout the maze. Fall Magic at LEGOLAND Discovery Center This weekend, LEGOLAND Discovery Center adds a twist with the Brick or Treat Monster Party. Kids can indulge in LEGO-themed activities, watch a captivating 4D Halloween movie, and engage in a scavenger hunt in MINILAND. It’s all included with regular admission, making it a fantastic weekend stop. Wizards & Wands Festival: A Treat for Book Lovers Celebrating the enchanting world of literature, the Wizards & Wands Festival at the Westerville Public Library brings stories to life with themed areas and impressive events tailored for young bookworms. This is a perfect opportunity to foster a love of reading while engaging with fellow aspiring wizards! Fall Harvest at Bob Evans Farm A day spent at the Bob Evans Farm Festival, located in Rio Grande, promises live music, local cuisine, and rides that will thrill the children. With affordable entry and additional activities to choose from, it is a fall tradition that families shouldn’t miss! The Winner’s Circle Awaits: Minion Hunt in Grove City For a unique twist this weekend, embark on a Minion Hunt where your kids can search for 14 hidden minions throughout Grove City Town Center. This engaging scavenger hunt combines excitement with exploration, offering a prize for their efforts! The Role of Local Community Events Local events like these not only provide entertainment for families but also nurture a sense of community. According to Experience Columbus, participating in community festivities allows families to forge connections and build lasting memories while enjoying the splendors of the fall season. Preparing for a Joyful Autumn As you prepare for what promises to be a weekend filled with laughter and joy, don’t forget to check the dates and timings of the events you’re interested in. From apple picking to haunted mazes, the range of activities available in Columbus this weekend allows for a perfect blend of fun and family bonding. Join the Fun and Make Memories! Don’t miss out on the exciting activities this weekend in Columbus, where each event offers something special for families. Share this list with friends and plan to experience the magic of fall together. For fabulous family adventures throughout the year, continue to explore local happenings!

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*