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Davis Public Library outlines 2026 summer reading program with sunflower theme and STEM events
Summary
Library Director Inga Dellea presented a "Plant the Seed" summer program featuring sunflower-seed giveaways, planting events, STEM demonstrations (solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower and a classroom chain-reaction learning activity), a finale with pizzas baked in solar-oven crafts, and incentives including water bottles and local gift cards.
Library Director Inga Dellea outlined plans for the Davis Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program, proposing a "Plant the Seed" sunflower theme aimed at encouraging repeat visits and hands-on STEM learning.
Under the plan, each child would receive sunflower seeds and either tend a plant at the library or send photos of a plant grown at home; a large sunflower display would track participation. Children would earn petals for every 15 minutes of reading. To kick off the program, the library would host a planting event featuring vegetables used on pizzas (for example, tomatoes) and conclude with a finale where participants help make pizzas baked in solar ovens built from pizza boxes.
Planned STEM programming includes demonstrations of geothermal, solar and wind power, hydropower activities, and a classroom chain-reaction demonstration used to introduce concepts related to energy and reactions in an age-appropriate way. Storytime themes and incentives were discussed: suggested books include Jack and the Beanstalk, The Three Sisters and Blueberries for Sal; incentives could include custom water bottles for registration and local business gift cards as completion rewards. Staff also discussed offering a small, in-library ice cream reward midway through the program using a compact ice cream machine to avoid external coupons.
Trustees noted logistics and integration with the town website. Angela Fletcher is organizing daily science experiments for February vacation week and volunteers are assisting with social media and supply organization. The Friends of the Library and Book PALS program were referenced as ongoing partnerships that support children's services.
The board asked staff to continue planning and to bring a draft for review at the March meeting; staff will prepare materials for the town annual report due in May.
