All ages, from babies to adults, can take part in free, fun events this summer with the North Olympic Library System. The Summer Reading Program runs from June 13 to Aug. 23 and includes dozens of activities and a reading challenge.

Track each day you read to earn a limited edition T-shirt or tote bag, and entries into the grand prize drawing. Visit NOLS.org/SRP or stop by the Sequim Library Temporary Location at 609 W. Washington St. to get started.

This year’s Summer Reading Program theme is “Level Up at Your Library,” a call to grow your knowledge, connect with your community and have fun along the way. The program kicks off with “Explore Space!” presented by the Pacific Science Center on Wednesday, June 25, at 10 a.m. at the Olympic Peninsula Academy gym. This interactive event features hands-on astronomy activities designed for kids and teens.

Whether you’re into games, science, or art, the library has something for everyone — from weekly Discovery Club for kids to a workshop with award-winning graphic novelist Kristin Varner. You can also join local experts for sessions on floral design, backyard birding and conquering clutter.

Get inspired with the following book recommendations, each connected to topics from this year’s Summer Reading Program.

“The Big Book of Useless Knowledge: 250 of the Coolest, Weirdest and Most Unbelievable Facts You Won’t Be Taught in School” by Brittney Borowiec. Broken into chapters including geography, space and history, a team of experts has scoured the world to find the silliest and most pointless facts that it has to offer. Accompanied by hilarious illustrations, kids will meet the prehistoric camel with no humps, the tortoises that went to the Moon (and came back again), and dancing cave people.

“Horse Trouble” by Kristin Varner, an American Library Association 2021 Best Graphic Novel for Children. Twelve-year-old Kate is laser-focused on her one true passion: horseback riding. But try as she might, she can’t hide from life’s problems in the stable.

“Fatal Forecast: An Incredible True Story of Courage in a Savage Storm” by Michael J. Tougias. As harrowing as “The Perfect Storm”—but with a miraculous ending—“Fatal Forecast” is one of the greatest survival stories ever told. Now available as a young readers edition.

“Floret Farm’s A Year in Flowers” by Erin Benzakein. Celebrated flower farmer Erin Benzakein presents a beautiful gardening book and guide to growing, harvesting and arranging gorgeous blooms year-round.

“Birding Basics: Tips, Tools and Techniques for Great Bird-Watching” by Noah Strycker.Not a field guide but a primer in best practices, this breezy book features easy-to-follow advice on what to look and listen for, how to use field guides and birding apps, the best equipment to start with, and ways to engage with other birders around the world.

Select your summer reads in any format – print, digital or audiobook – and count each day you read during the challenge, whether it’s for 30 minutes or three hours. Stop by the library to browse the shelves or ask staff for assistance finding your next great read. You can also call the library at 360-683-1161 or email Discover@nols.org.