Summer paints the Plateau in broad strokes of green and gold – and inside the libraries of Highlands and Cashiers, a different kind of color is coming to life, one story, one song, one adventure at a time. Rather than filling summer days with screen time, these libraries offer interactive experiences that engage multiple senses and foster real world connections.
At Hudson Library in Highlands, the Summer Learning Program is ready to “Color Your World,” this year’s vibrant theme that invites readers to dive into stories, creativity, and exploration. Children can jump into the weekly Kids Zone, where programs like Didgeridoo Down Under, Professor Whizzpop’s magic and mayhem, and the Mainspring EcoSplash stir up a lively mix of science, storytelling, and hands-on fun. Bingo for Books guarantees every young reader heads home with a new story to treasure.
Adults have their own adventures waiting. Hudson Library will host a lineup of local author talks throughout June, showcasing creative voices from the Plateau and beyond.
On June 20, Martha Novak – award-winning author and spiritual teacher – will discuss her new mystery novel Blood Mountain, set in the North Carolina mountains.
On June 24, Pippa Seichrist and her adopted son Andry will share the story behind their co-authored memoir, My Life Before: A Memoir of Family Created through Adoption. And on June 27, Highlands’ resident Diane Heiler will speak about her just-published memoir A Widow’s Fire, an exploration of love, loss, and resilience
June is no less colorful in Cashiers at the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library. Their Summer Learning Program also embraces the “Color Your World theme,” with reading challenges and prizes designed to spark excitement in readers of every age.
Program highlights include the beloved Friends of the Library Book Sale, running June 10–14, where browsing becomes a small adventure of its own. On June 7, Dia del Niño promises a joyful celebration of children with crafts, music, and games. The Cashiers Kids Color Course returns on June 16, offering young participants a chance to run, laugh, and splash their way through a canvas of summer fun. Outdoor enthusiasts can join the Blue Ridge Garden Quest, continuing every other Friday. Music fans will find Bryan Heller performing on June 26, while those with a flair for writing can develop their talents at the Summer Writing Workshop launching this month.
For complete program details and registration information, visitors can check the Fontana Regional Library website, fontanalib.org.
Pictured: Pippa and Andry Seichrist
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