Island Park Public Library celebrates summer reading program with block party

Posted Friday, August 28, 2026 8:04 am

Veronica Breidenbach, 5 and her sister, Margaret, 7, practiced their hula hoop skills during the Island Park Public Library’s summer reading block party on Aug. 11.

Sue Grieco/Herald

Callie Bechold, 3, was ready to bowl outside as young readers gathered for an afternoon of games and activities.

Sue Grieco/Herald

Two-year old Christopher Wernert took a speedy ride down the bouncy house slide.

Sue Grieco/Herald

Quinn Clance, 8, Agapi Zaharioudaki, 10, and Cora Clance, 10, competed against each other in a cup-stacking challenge.

Sue Grieco/Herald

Four-year old Nico Cattabiani was having a blast as he bounced down the slide.

Sue Grieco/Herald

Two-year old Christopher Wernert got a better look at the pins before taking his turn at bowling.

Sue Grieco/Herald

By Abigail Grieco

The Island Park Public Library brought its summer reading session to a festive close with a community block party featuring activities for children and adults.

Young readers celebrated on Aug. 11 with outdoor chalk, bowling, bouncy houses and obstacle courses, cup stacking competitions and sweet treats. Participants put their creativity to work while enjoying an afternoon centered on books, art and community.

The finale marked the conclusion of another summer programming designed to encourage reading while bringing Island Park residents together. Through books, games, activities and social gatherings, the library’s summer reading program offered opportunities for community members of all ages to participate.

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