DERBY — The school year is coming to an end, and that means Derby Neck Library is kicking off this year’s summer reading program! This year’s theme is “Unearth a Story,” so you can expect a ton of archeology antics and fossil fun, starting with a dino-mite kickoff party (The Big Dig) on June 29 from 1:00-5:00pm. 

The Big Dig will feature a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages, including crafts, yard games, live music, and movie showings. Plus, there will be free food and cold beverages. The featured events are:

  • A fossil presentation by Stamford Museum and Nature Center
  • Sandbox dig for dinosaur fossils and gemstones
  • Planting affirmations on seeded paper

You will not want to miss this great event, entirely free of charge!

Derby Neck Library is also offering extra programs for all ages this Summer in addition to their already stellar line-up of regular programs:

  • Valley Tales on the Derby Greenway – all ages walking club with local history
  • Adult/Teen Escape Rooms – various themes on various days
  • Family Fun Time – games, snacks, karaoke, and more
  • Taste Makers – learn about and sample new culinary trends

Check the Derby Neck Library website for full schedule with program descriptions.

And finally, patrons can earn rewards just by using the library this summer. For kids, check out books and earn plush dinosaur Book Buddies. For kids and teens, track reading and library program attendance to collect points for prizes and raffle tickets at our Summer Reading End Games celebration. For adults, try the suggested books and activities on our 2026 Summer BINGO Card to earn raffle tickets for prize drawings. These extras are just a bonus for taking advantage of the excellent materials and programs the library offers.

Whether you’re looking for activities to enjoy without spending a fortune, chasing personal or professional growth, or craving a community to connect with, you can find it all this Summer at Derby Neck Library.

Derby Neck Library is located at 307 Hawthorne Ave. in Derby. They are open Monday-Thursday from 10:00am-8:00pm and Saturday-Sunday from 1:00-5:00pm. Visit derbynecklibrary.org for more information.