Library Center of the Ozarks’ End of SRC Bash!

The library recently celebrated the end of the Summer Reading Challenge with a special event for everyone who participated in the program this summer. The grand finale, Party in the Park, was held at Stockstill Park in Branson.

Over 250 SRC participants enjoyed a bounce house and foam cannon from TNT Inflatables and a shaved ice treat from Kona Ice of the Ozarks. They also met our community helpers - Branson Police, Branson Fire Rescue, Taney County Ambulance District and Branson Parks and Rec Department. The kids had the opportunity to explore a fire engine, sit inside an ambulance, and even turn on the siren in the police car.

According to Ms. Lia, Children’s Services Supervisor, “Several kids told me that this was the best day of their lives!” Ms. Lia continued, “It has been such a blessing and joy to offer these programs for our community. It’s wonderful to see the excitement that the library can bring to local families, and we hope to continue for many years to come.”

The Summer Reading Challenge is a library initiative to encourage reading, generate interest and use of the library, help students keep their skills up, and have fun!

The 2025 Summer Reading Challenge was a nine-week program filled with special programs, reading incentives, prizes and amazing performances for the kids. This year the kids enjoyed Marty the Magician, Dickerson Park Zoo, and Mad Science of Greater Kansas City, in addition to the weekly storytimes, Come & Go programs and Lego Club. The Children’s Team held 24 programs in June and July with over 2,730 attendees.

SRC isn’t just for kids. Almost 200 adults and teens enjoyed a variety of programs including gardening, cooking, beekeeping, a puzzle swap and a new Teen Book Club hosted by local student Sam Walworth.

“SRC was extremely successful,” commented Essy Day, Library Director, “We had 887 people register this year, which is a 53% increase over last year. Our staff worked hard planning and preparing for the summer, and we couldn’t be happier with the turnout. We loved seeing all the families having fun, reading and supporting the library!”

For more information about the library’s services, programs and resources please visit the website at www.LCOzarks.com, follow the Library on Facebook and Instagram (lcozarks) or call the Library at 417-334-1418.