The Natchitoches Parish Library (NPL) invites families and community members of all ages to celebrate the launch of its 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Unearth a Story,”at its free outdoor Kickoff Celebration on Saturday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the front lawn of the Main Branch at 450 2nd St. in Natchitoches. The event is open to the public at no charge, with no registration required to attend.

Korn Pop, a magician and clown, will perform at 10 a.m. and again at 1 p.m., while Ol’ Mel’s Farm Petting Zoo will be on-site throughout the event for children to meet and interact with live animals. Attendees can cool off with snowballs, including sugar-free options, grab nachos, and enjoy sidewalk chalk, bubble machines, and complimentary face “tattoos.” All Summer Reading participants who stop by the registration table will receive a special “Reading Rocks” bracelet while supplies last.

Saturday’s celebration also marks the final day of the Friends of NPL Mini Book Sale. Book lovers can take advantage of a special $5 fill-a-box deal or browse individual titles for just 25 cents each, a rare chance to add to a home library or stock up for summer reading at a price nearly anyone can manage.

“We want this to be a day that gets families excited about reading together all summer long,” said Alan Niette, NPL Deputy Director. “And the Kickoff is just the beginning! There’s a full schedule of programs ahead, with dedicated events for adults, teens, and children, and we’d love to see as many families as possible get signed up and ready to go.”

The community is encouraged to stop by the registration table on Saturday to enroll in the Summer Reading Program, pick up the schedule of summer reading program events, and get help setting up or updating a Beanstack account to track their reading for rewards. Registration is also available now at natlib.org, by clicking on the Summer Reading Program banner on the homepage.