Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Peninsula Public Library in Lawrence invited local families to grab the mic and join the fun at its first Karaoke Night for kids and families, part of this summer’s Color Our World reading program.
The event took place Aug. 14 at 6, and children from kindergarten to eighth grade chose from a preselected list of family-friendly songs submitted in advance to perform. Children’s librarian Henna Ross said it was “a non-pressure environment” where everyone is cheered on.
“We wanted to include a music element,” Ross said. “Following that train of thought, Karaoke Night felt like the perfect solution.”
For local parent Ella Asherov, Karaoke Night was an easy choice.
“My daughter loves the activities in the library and it keeps her busy after camp,” Asherov said. “She also loves to sing, so karaoke would be a great activity.”
Asherov added that her daughter has attended most of the children’s programs at the library, with favorites including paint night and sand art.
Children’s Librarian Serena Zingale said Karaoke Night is part of the library’s mission to give kids a variety of creative outlets.
“This summer we’ve explored art in so many different ways — Picasso-inspired self-portraits, Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’, even making mini banjos,” Zingale said. “Karaoke gives kids a chance to express themselves through music, which is just as much an art form as painting or sculpture.”
The night included kosher pizza, snacks and water. Registration was required to ensure enough food and manage space.
“It can be intimidating to be in front of a crowd, but it can be a little easier to perform with friends,” Zingale noted.
She added that even shy kids could join in by singing from their seats. Asherov agreed that it could go either way for shy kids.
“No, because they will not do it, but it could also break kids’ shyness,” she said. “It can go either way.”
Asherov said she was looking forward to singing along and enjoying the time together, adding that events like this “bring family and friends together” and “keep kids of all ages entertained while getting them off the iPad as long as possible.”
Karaoke Night is one of many summer events designed to help children engage and connect during school break.
“Children… will have a place to interact together over music and pizza,” Ross said. “They may not have known each other before but are getting to know one another from a program at the library.”
The library has already hosted a range of programs tied to the summer theme, including Picasso-inspired self-portraits, mini banjo making, and colorful sensory play. Upcoming events include Canvas Paint Night on Aug. 19, and the Color War Relay Race on Aug. 21.
“If the event goes well and the feedback is positive then I would love to make karaoke a regular event,” Ross said.
Asherov said she hopes the library will keep expanding its offerings, suggesting more painting, coding workshops, and movie days.
“It’s a great activity throughout the year,” she said. “It entertains kids, keeps them engaged, and connects us more to our community.”
