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Surprise libraries launch 'America 250' reading program and expand 'library of things' collection
Summary
The library's 'Stars and Stories' America 250 reading initiative begins Oct. 1 (website Sept. 17) with a 1776‑minute target, kickoff Oct. 4, and prizes for youth and adults; staff also outlined expanded 'library of things' items including Tony boxes, sensory kits, pickleball kits and power tools funded by grants and donations.
Library staff described a major community program and an expanding loanable collection at the Sept. 11 Surprise Public Library Advisory Commission meeting. The "Stars and Stories" America 250 reading program will run Oct. 1 through July 4, 2026; the website is scheduled to go live Sept. 17, and the kickoff party is set for Oct. 4 at Surprise Regional. "The goal is to reach 1776 minutes," the presenter said, calling out community challenges that encourage attendance at local events.
Staff outlined prizes and promotional items: children will be able to pick from a treasure chest of patriotic items, teens and adults can earn challenge coins, and adults will be eligible for pint glasses and other swag. The library also opened a design category for America 250 in its library card design contest and announced an essay contest to be recognized by the mayor and council.
Separately, staff detailed an expanding "library of things" curated for hands‑on learning and recreation. New items funded with grants and donations include Tonies (audio activity boxes), adult and teen sensory kits, grandparent kits, pickleball kits and plans to trial power tools and other practical equipment. Staff noted that six American Girl dolls went out on loan within 12 hours of announcement and that copy/catalog work is required to add nontraditional items to the catalog. An incoming MLIS intern, Samantha Seebuck, was introduced; staff said she will support youth and teen programming across branches.
Staff credited SGIA and LSTA grant funds and Friends‑donation proceeds for enabling many of the new offerings and said they will continue to seek speakers and partners for the program series. The presentation emphasized outreach and community building rather than policy changes; commissioners offered support and suggestions for future speakers and community partnerships.
