Western Sullivan Public Library Launches “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program

The Western Sullivan Public Library (WSPL) is kicking summer with its 2025 Summer Reading Program, Color Our World, inviting readers of all ages to explore art, storytelling, and community through a colorful array of free public events.

The program begins Tuesday, July 1, with a launch at the Delaware Youth Center in Callicoon featuring Mr. Wonka’s Wonder Show by children’s performer David Engel. It’s the start of a six-week series that blends reading with hands-on creativity—from mime and music to zines and murals.

“The theme ‘Color Our World’ comes from the Collaborative Summer Library Program, a national initiative,” said Callison Stratton of WSPL in an interview on Radio Catskill. “Each library brings it to life in their own way, and for us, that means six weeks of programming with a different artistic focus each week—visual art, 3D art, music, writing, and more—for kids, teens, and adults.”

Art, Expression, and Events for All Ages
Among the highlights is a visit from mime and storyteller Robert Rivest on July 10 at WSPL’s Callicoon branch. His interactive performance emphasizes self-expression and emotional literacy through theater and improv.

The season will also feature a Community Art Party—a collaborative celebration of creativity—with live music from local artists (including Stratton herself and Barryville Area Arts Association’s Nick Rose), wildflower pressing with the National Park Service, and a community mural project under the theme Color Our County.
For teens, the lineup includes a podcasting group, a Dungeons & Dragons campaign, songwriting and poetry workshops (including one with Sullivan County Poet Laureate Kevin Scott Graham), zine-making, nature photography, and book clubs.

“This is the age when people are figuring out who they are and how they relate to the world,” said Stratton. “The library can be a place where they not only discover creative outlets, but also community and connection.”

Reading Incentives, Prize Wheels, and More
WSPL is also motivating participation in the program with a range of incentives. Kids can pick up a “reading tracker” and earn prizes from the library’s reward baskets. Adults get their own “reading game board,” and both age groups can earn points by attending programs.

Top readers will be rewarded with gift bags, commemorative t-shirts, and other prizes.

How to Get Involved
Families can find a full schedule and sign up for updates at wsplonline.org. Stratton also launched a new youth newsletter to keep families informed of weekly offerings.

For questions or to sign up directly, parents can email her directly at wspl.childrens@gmail.com.

WSPL Wants Community Feedback
In addition to the summer festivities, WSPL is currently conducting a community survey as part of its long-term strategic planning. “Every five years, we ask the public to tell us what’s working and what we can improve,” Stratton explained.

Surveys are available on the library website, at all WSPL branches (Callicoon, Jeffersonville, and Narrowsburg), local post offices, and shops across the region.

“Our library is about more than books,” said Stratton. “It’s a space for growth, creativity, and belonging—and we want to know how we can better serve our community in the years ahead.”

Radio Note: When she’s not “coloring our world,” Callison Stratton can be heard hosting Liberation Station on Saturday nights at 7:00 p.m. on Radio Catskill.

Image Credit: Freepik