Explore an 'ocean of possibilities' with kids summer library events

Becky Johnson, The Mountaineer, Waynesville, N.C.
·2 min read

Jun. 8—Summer programs for kids are in full swing at the Waynesville and Canton libraries, from art and science to a free magic show.

The programs revolve around the summer reading program theme "Oceans of Possibilities." Along with awesome free events and activities, kids can pick up a summer reading starter kit with swag and reading logs they can turn in for prizes.

—Mini Art Exhibit: 1-2 p.m. Friday, June 10, Canton library

Come show off your art skills and paint mini ocean canvases. The creations will be on display for the rest of summer for library visitors to vote on their favorite. The painting with the most votes at the end of July will receive a special prize. Geared for ages 10 and up.

—Ocean Ornament Take & Make Kit: Monday, June 13, all libraries.

Pick up a craft supply kit to make an unique ocean-themed ornament from home. Take & Make Kits will be available at all library locations starting June 13, while supplies last.

—Float: 1-2 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, at the Waynesville library and Thursday, June 23, at the Canton library.

Join local science educator and author Dawn Cusick for this hands-on educational program all about the ocean. The ocean surface holds a world of magical plant and animal wonders that contribute two-thirds of the planet's oxygen, as well as play a big role in the world's food web. Discover these tiny treasures through stories, photos, and microscopes! Geared for ages 6 and up.

—Commotion in the Ocean Magic Show: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 16.

Have a whale of a summer with Professor Whizzpop's all new magic show. There's giggles galore, madcap magic, and plenty of barnacled books.

Meet the world's only acrobatic goldfish, mis-make a mermaid, narrowly avoid becoming a shark snack and see a real-life pirate shot out of a real-life cannon! To accommodate a larger audience, this program will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Waynesville.

—Ocean String Art: 1-2 p.m. Friday, June 17, Waynesville library.

A beautiful piece of art! Make unique ocean-inspired string art that is perfect to use as décor or give as a gift, using a wood block with nails and string. Geared for teens ages 12 to 17.

—Lighthouse Building Challenge: 1-2 p.m. June 20, Canton library.

Learn all about lighthouses while doing a fun, hands-on engineering activity. The individual or team who creates the tallest lighthouse structure will receive a prize.

—Sand Dollar Painting: 1-2 p.m. Friday, June 24, Waynesville library.

Explore your creativity and create a unique piece of art on a sand dollar. Geare for ages 8 and up. Space limited, RSVP required.

For Waynesville, contact lisa.hartzell@haywoodcountync.gov or 828-356-2511.

For Canton, contact hollie.locke@haywoodcountync.gov or 828-356-2567.