Southwest Public Libraries has an amazing summer reading challenge happening now for all ages. The challenge runs through July 31, and sign-up began online June 4 and continues all summer through the READsquared app or in-person at the library.

Set a goal for yourself to read every day or simply fit a bit more reading into your busy week. Using our app, read to participate in quests for all ages, discover new-to-you books and authors and win milestone prizes along the way.

SPL’s live performers have proved their perennial popularity again this summer, as we welcomed near-record crowds to both libraries in early June for magic shows and petting zoos. There are many more live, virtual and take-home activities and programs to keep everyone in our community, of any age, learning, reading and having fun together all summer long.

At 10:30 a.m. June 25, children in the elementary grades are invited to the Water Lab. Slimy is good when it comes to the ocean. In this Water Lab, we will discover why and even make our own slime as a bonus. Make sure to also join us July 16 at the same time for Amazing Water Lab: Protect the Wonders, where we'll explore ocean currents and tide pools and learn what we can do to help.

Off the Shelf:Margaret Atwood visit, summer reading fun highlight schedule

Recommended for ages 2–7, Erica Carlson's Rockin' Pirate Show featuring Sedgewick the Live Hedgehog will be at Grove City Library at 10:30 a.m. June 27, with a repeat performance that afternoon at Westland Area Library. Get ready for a magical treasure hunt. Is the crew searching for gold or for Sedgie the Hedgie? Erica and her pirate crew will go on a fun adventure to uncover magical buried treasure and get a sneak peek at Erica’s new picture book.

At 6:30 p.m. Mondays, July 11, 18 and 25, Water Baby storytimes welcome some of our youngest patrons, ages 4 months to 24 months, to an early-literacy learning and exploring time complete with playing and singing.

At 2:30 p.m. on five Wednesdays during the summer, students in grades K–5 are invited to explore the ocean, with stories, crafts, activities and fun at our series of Ocean Adventures. Two of the Wednesdays remain, and we hope you’ll join us for “An Ocean of Wonders,” July 13, and “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” July 20.

Family Fun: Islands of Adventure on July 14 lets the whole family have fun while “traveling” to different islands. Explore and complete activities at each new island you visit on your trip.

At 6:30 p.m. July 13, students in grade 6 and up are invited to participate in Teen Trivia Night. The winning team will receive prizes and bragging rights.

Mark your calendars in advance for this very special appearance for youth of all ages. At 10:30 a.m. July 27, get up close and personal with yellow stingrays from the Newport Aquarium. Stingrays are closely related to sharks but have an incredibly different body shape and survival method. This program will cover these differences and similarities between species, as well as how we can all work to be a part of their conservation.

For more information about programs for babies, children, teens and adults, go to our website at swpl.org and check out our calendar or call or stop by the library. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Meredith Wickham is the director of Southwest Public Libraries.