Free Library offers ‘Summer Quest’ reading programs for kids and adults

Posted 6/11/26

The city on June 8 launched “Summer Quest,” a new citywide summer learning and engagement program that invites children, teens and adults to explore science, gaming, history, art and reading through free activities at all 54 neighborhood libraries.

The program is designed to connect “Philadelphians of all ages to the learning, creativity and discovery that make our city so special,” Mayor Cherelle L. Parker said in a press release. “As Philadelphia continues to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, residents in every neighborhood will have the opportunity to explore our …

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Free Library offers ‘Summer Quest’ reading programs for kids and adults

Posted

The city on June 8 launched “Summer Quest,” a new citywide summer learning and engagement program that invites children, teens and adults to explore science, gaming, history, art and reading through free activities at all 54 neighborhood libraries.

The program is designed to connect “Philadelphians of all ages to the learning, creativity and discovery that make our city so special,” Mayor Cherelle L. Parker said in a press release. “As Philadelphia continues to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, residents in every neighborhood will have the opportunity to explore our history, engage with their communities, and create new memories through free programs at our neighborhood libraries.”

The Free Library’s summer learning programs have served Philadelphia families for more than a century. Summer Quest expands those offerings with new activities designed by librarians for children, teens and adults. Participants also can explore more than 130 programs that highlight the city’s history and culture.

The program includes online options, and participants also can use take-home Summer Quest activity maps to keep track of reading and library activities.

Programming this year includes familiar favorites like the Center for Aquatic Sciences, Claymobile, Snakes Alive, South Street Art Mart, Taffy’s Face Painting, Thembi Palmer, Two of a Kind and more.

In partnership with The Franklin Institute, the Free Library also is offering GSK Science in the Summer, a program to increase children’s interest and confidence in science. The 2026 theme “Be a Chemist!” encourages children to explore the role of different types of chemists, including cosmetic, forensic, materials, medicinal and water.

Summer Quest runs until Friday, Aug. 14. Participants can sign up at their neighborhood library or online at the Summer Quest website, where there is a complete listing of all upcoming events, freelibrary.org/summer.