Summer Reading Kickoff
Friday, May 30 from 6-7:30 p.m.
Forsyth County Central Library
The Summer Reading program kicks off with activities inside and outside the Forsyth County Central Library. Pick up Summer Reading calendars and information about Library departments and programs, and other community and county partners.
While you’re out on the lawn ...
- Get a sneak peek of our Colorful Summer Foods program with Chef Floyd Davis.
- Enjoy facepainting, lawn games, bubbles, crafts, and icy pops (while supplies last).
- Witness mind-blowing science experiments.
While you’re in the Central Library ...
- Learn how the Friends of the Library groups support programs for all ages.
- Explore the Library’s more than 20 book clubs that offer something to every book lover.
- Find out about the many programs, services, and resources available across the Library system.
- Play video games in Teen Central.
- Learn how a Glowforge laser printer works and pick up a wooden keychain (while supplies last).
Author Visits
- Picturing Black History with Damarius Johnson
June 14 from 2-3:30 p.m. at Forsyth County Central Library
Join us for a moderated conversation, reception, and book-signing with Damarius Johnson, editor of Picturing Black History: Photographs and Stories that Changed the World.
Bookmarks will be selling books at the event, and the books are available for purchase now.
- Local Author Spotlight with Tamelia Keaton
June 21 at 1 p.m. at Carver School Road Branch Library
Engage in conversation with local author Tamelia Keaton as she shares the inspiration behind her latest works and gives a glimpse into her writing routines and the stories behind the stories.
- A Perfect Frenzy with Andrew Lawler
July 9 from 5:30-7 p.m. at Forsyth County Central Library
Join us for a discussion, reception, and book-signing with North Carolina author Andrew Lawler about his 2025 book A Perfect Frenzy: A Royal Governor, his Black Allies, and the Crisis that Spurred the
American Revolution. Bookmarks will be selling his books at the event, and the books are available for purchase now.
Colorful Summer Foods with Chef Floyd Davis
In June, Chef Floyd Davis will discuss how to choose, prepare, and enjoy Marvelous Melons! In July, he'll put a twist on a ballpark favorite with an Edgy Veggie Carrot Dog. These programs are for children and their caregivers, and and registration is required.*
Click on the links below for directions and registration information.
Storytime with the Piedmont Opera
The Piedmont Opera has been delighting audiences for nearly 50 years. This summer, the Library is partnering with the Piedmont Opera to offer a Storytime performance like no other. A professional opera singer will present a story, explain elements of their profession, and stay for a meet-and-greet session. Click on the links below for directions.
Storytime with the Piedmont Opera
The Piedmont Opera has been delighting audiences for nearly 50 years. This summer, the Library is partnering with the Piedmont Opera to offer a Storytime performance like no other. A professional opera singer will present a story, explain elements of their profession, and stay for a meet-and-greet session. Click on the links below for directions.
Mad Science of the Triad
Mad Science of the Triad has been fostering a love of science, technology, engineering, and math among children for over 30 years. This summer, several branches will host shows and hands-on programs for children of all ages.
Mad Science Workshops
Ages 5-11. This hands-on workshop will give children a deeper understanding of fundamental scientific principles, spark a sense of wonder and discovery in children, and unlock the door to the captivating world of STEM. Space is limited, so call the branch you want to attend to register.
Mad Science Show
Grades K-5. This high-energy, action-packed show includes exciting experiments and demonstrations.
NC Zoo
The North Carolina Zoo has been part of the Old North State since 1967. Guests can discover more than 1,800 animals in multiple habitats. This summer, the Zoo is hitting the road and bringing a worldwide adventure to multiple Library branches! Come explore three continents, meet some awesome animal ambassadors, learn about famous pioneers and scientists, and dive into some adventurous jobs!
Sawtooth School for Visual Arts
Since its founding in 1945, Sawtooth School for Visual Art has served generations of artists, from skilled professionals to novices of all ages. Sawtooth and the Library are collaborating this summer to celebrate Sawtooth's "Here Come the Puppets" exhiit (June 8-July 20).
- Puppet Storytime at Sawtooth School for Visual Art
June 11, June 25, and July 9 at 10 a.m.
All ages. This puppet-themed intergenerational program is filled with stories, songs, and movement that encourage early literacy skill development.
- Sawtooth Puppet Parade
July 20 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Forsyth County Central Library
All ages. Children and families will meet at the Forsyth County Central Library to make puppets and enjoy a Storytime before parading to Sawtooth for more making, letterpress cranking, and exhibit viewing.
Winston Salem Symphony
The Winston-Salem Symphony is one of the oldest and most respected professional arts organizations in the Triad. The Symphony makes dozens of educational opportunities available to children every year, and this summer, families will be able to see, touch, and play the real instruments that are used in the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra when they visit the Symphony Petting Zoo.
