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Endicott's George F. Johnson Library: Summer Fun for the Whole Family

GFJ Library's summer reading challenge and special programming for all ages begins June 17

By Kate Fletcher, Macaroni KID Binghamton Publisher June 4, 2024

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained, cool off from the heat, and maybe even sneak in some educational fun this summer? The George F. Johnson Memorial Library in Endicott is gearing up for a season filled with literary adventures, exciting events, and programs for all ages. Whether you're a bookworm looking to dive into a captivating novel, a curious child eager to explore new worlds, or a family seeking fun activities, the GFJ Library has something for you. Registration for the programs listed below begins Monday, June 17, 2024.

Summer Reading Challenge

Beginning Monday, June 17, 2024, all ages are invited to join GFJ Library's summer reading challenge by picking up a Reading Road Map and other goodies at the library. This program is designed for readers of all ages to encourage life-long reading habits. You can also join online at gfjlibraryny09.readsquared.com to earn points and receive a completion certificate.

Story Time for Children Ages 0-5

Children ages 0-5 and their caregivers are invited to join GFJ Library every week for story times from July 8 - August 9, 2024. 
  • Wednesdays at 10am or 11am for ages 0-2: George F. Johnson Library Mother Goose Story Time - Registration recommended.
  • Tuesdays at 10am for ages 2-5 at George W. Johnson Park Story Time in Endicott - No registration.
  • Thursdays at 10am for ages 2-5 at Highland Park Story Time in Endwell - No registration.

Family Fun Fridays

Children ages 6 and under and their caregivers are invited for family fun at George F. Johnson Library on Fridays at 11am. No registration
  • July 12: Nature Cat with WSKG 
  • July 19: Fiddling Around with Books 
  • July 26: Baby Animals with Farmer Jen from Edwards Petting Farm 
  • August 2: Musical Playdate with Johnny Only 
  • August 9: Adventure Story Time  

Adventures for 1st-3rd Graders

Children entering grades 1-3 can join in the fun on Thursdays from 2-3pm at George F. Johnson Library. Registration required for each week.
  • July 11: Adventures in Jurassic Times
  • July 18: Adventures with Flashlights
  • July 25: Adventures with Pirates
  • August 1: Adventures in a Fairy Tale Castle
  • August 8: Adventures with Wind  

Tween Workshops for 4th-6th Graders

Children entering grades 4-6 are invited to enjoy a variety of activities on Tuesdays from 2-3pm. Registration required for each week.
  • July 9: Design a Dragon
  • July 16: Air Rockets with Kopernik
  • July 23: Painting Workshop
  • July 30: Lego Stories
  • August 6: Game Quest

Teen Fun for 7th-12th Graders

Teens entering grades 7-12 are invited to enjoy these fun events and programs at George F. Johnson Library throughout the summer.

Family Adventure Nights

Families are invited to read, create, and play together on Thursdays from 6-7:30pm. No registration.
  • July 11: Read to the Therapy Dogs
  • July 18: Family Fun Night - Bring the whole family for trivia, games, and fun!
  • July 25: Read to the Therapy Dogs
  • August 1: Lego Adventure Night - Work together to build and create!
  • August 8: Read to the Therapy Dogs
  • August 15: Family Game Night - Have a blast playing our board games!

More Family Fun

Bring the family to enjoy these special evening events at the George F. Johnson Library!
  • July 10: Kids' Street Art (6-7:30pm) - Artist Eric Maruscak will help kids entering grades 1-6 draw our adventures in front of the library. Registration required.
  • July 17: Animal Fun with Edwards Petting Farm (6pm) - Farmer Jen is coming with some of her adorable animals. No registration.
  • July 20: Kopernik Portable Planetarium (5-8pm) - Learn about the summer night sky in Kopernik Observatory’s Portable Planetarium! Shows at 5 & 5:30pm for preschool-1st grade. Shows at 6, 6:30, 7 & 7:30pm for grades 2-6. Adults must attend with children. Registration required.
  • July 31: Adventures in Juggling with Will Stafford (6pm) - Watch a performance by juggler, Will Stafford, and be amazed what he can juggle! No registration.
  • August 7: Chalk Art Extravaganza (6-7:30pm) - Artist Eric Maruscak will help your whole family create fantastic street art on the concourse in front of the library. No registration.


Don't miss out on the fantastic opportunities the George F. Johnson Memorial Library has to offer this summer!  With their engaging Summer Reading Program, a calendar packed with special events, and a welcoming atmosphere for readers of all ages, the library is the perfect destination for a fun and enriching summer experience. For more information, visit gfjlibrary.org/summerreading.



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