CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (June 9, 2025) – The Carteret County Public Library System announced today the launch of its 2025 Summer Reading Program, "Color Our World," kicking off Saturday, June 14. This year's theme, selected by the national Collaborative Summer Library Program, invites readers of all ages to celebrate creativity through painting, drawing, music, theater, textile arts, storytelling, photography and more.
The "Color Our World" program runs throughout the summer at all five library branches, offering a vibrant lineup of events designed to engage imaginations, support literacy and strengthen community connections. From hands-on animal-themed writing workshops for children to historical lectures for adults, there is something for every age and interest.
Events include:
- Opening Day Celebration – June 14: Join us at any branch for art-themed activities and register for the Summer Reading Program. All ages are welcome.
- Maritime Museum Family Storytimes – June 20, July 11 and 18, Aug. 8: Ocean-themed stories and science at Newport and Beaufort branches.
- Whiskers, Words, and Wonders – June 23, July 7 and 25: Children ages 6-12 can learn about pet care, write from a shelter animal's point of view and host a stuffed animal sleepover.
- Magic Show with Dana Hill – July 30 at the Civic Center: Magician Dana Hill brings his unique blend of laughter and illusion for the whole family.
- Blackbeard the Pirate – July 16 at Bogue Banks: A swashbuckling storytime with the infamous pirate.
- N.C. Aquarium Programs – July 31 (Newport) and Aug. 7 (Down East).
- Book Talk with Barbara McCreary – July 28 at Beaufort: Author-led discussion and art project based on her book, "Ebb and Flow," for ages 8-12.
- The Shark Lady Returns – Aug. 2 at Western Carteret: Learn to identify fossils and shark teeth in back-to-back children's and adult sessions with Dr. Oliphant.
Special programs for adults:
- Fun on the Water: The Early Days of Coastal Tourism in Carteret County – June 17 at 10:30 a.m., Western Carteret: David Bennett, curator at the Maritime Museum, shares how tourism shaped the county from the late 1700s through the early 1900s.
- Discover the History of Core Banks with Dr. Stan Rule – Aug. 4 at 2 p.m., Beaufort: Dr. Rule presents a captivating slide show covering key historical moments and coastal culture on the Core Banks.
"This summer is all about imagination, expression and community," said Dorothy Howell, Library Director. "Whether you're painting, writing, learning or just soaking in the stories, 'Color Our World' is a chance for everyone to get inspired and be part of something colorful and fun."
Many of these programs are made possible through the generous support of the Friends of the Library groups across Carteret County.
Registration begins June 14 at all five branches. Stop by to sign up and pick up your reading log. All events are free and open to the public.
To view the full event schedule, visit www.carteretcountypubliclibrary.org.
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