McDowell County Library kicks off 'Unearth a Story' summer reading program, reports nearly 500 participants last year

Marlon Brinkley, representing the McDowell County Library, told commissioners on June 8 that the county’s summer reading program officially launched earlier that day and is designed to encourage reading and curb summer learning loss.

Brinkley said the program — themed "Unearth a Story" and offered at the Marian and Old Fort branches — features nearly 50 children’s programs across June and July, teen and adult workshops, genealogy sessions and family events at Lake James State Park in partnership with local groups. "The summer reading program is a nationwide initiative, offered by all public libraries across the country," he said, describing reading challenges, guest presenters and prizes funded by local businesses.

Why it matters: Brinkley emphasized both the educational and community value of the program. He reported nearly 500 McDowell County residents participated last summer, returning more than 1,100 reading logs and reporting roughly 9,000 hours spent reading — figures he said represent thousands of hours of learning and family engagement in the county.

Details and outreach: Highlights for children include a dinosaur-focused lineup and a June 13 free family event at Lake James State Park that will feature story walks, sand-castle contests and free food. For teens and adults, visiting artist Michael Albert will demonstrate collage work July 21, and genealogy workshops are scheduled June 26 and July 24. Prizes and raffle baskets donated by area businesses will reward participants who complete reading challenges.

Commissioners thanked Brinkley and encouraged residents to visit the renovated Marian branch or the Old Fort location and to participate; commissioners and several attendees praised the bookmobile’s visits to local schools.

The library’s summer programming continues through July 31, with a final children’s event on July 30.