Summer at the Library: Create, Explore & Connect

This summer, the Danforth Public Library is inviting people of all ages to discover new interests, make connections, and enjoy a season full of creativity and fun through a variety of free programs and activities.

Designed to be welcoming and low-pressure, this year’s summer programming focuses on recurring clubs, hands-on activities, and drop-in opportunities for kids, teens, adults, and families alike. Whether you are interested in building, creating, crafting, exploring, or simply spending time with others in the community, there will be something for everyone throughout the summer.

For specific questions, contact us directly at danforthmainelibrary@gmail.com.

Children's Programming Schedule

Every Wednesday from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• June 17: Rock Painting
  Let your imagination roll during our rock painting kickoff session. Participants will select their own smooth stones and use colorful paint to design masterpieces. You can take your creation home or leave it to decorate our library for the summer.
• June 24: Marker Sketching Club
  Get ready to sharpen your drawing skills with helpful guidance from Art Hub for Kids. Grab some markers and follow along to create some fun drawings.
• July 1: Postcard Decorating
  Share the joy of snail mail by designing your very own custom postcards. Drop your finished cards into the mailbox to spread the joy.
• July 8: Graphic Novel Creation
  Step into the shoes of a comic book artist and bring your own visual stories to life. We will provide blank comic panels and template sheets to help you build characters, dialogue, and plot lines. Discover how text and illustrations combine to make unforgettable adventures.
• July 15: DIY Maracas
  Bring the rhythm to the library by crafting your very own musical instruments. We will assemble colorful maracas using everyday household items and fill them with noisy shaker materials. Once finished, everyone will join in on a lively rhythm circle to test out their new creations.
• July 22: Mock Crime Scene with the Houlton Police Department
  Become a junior detective for the afternoon and help solve a thrilling mystery. The Houlton Police Department will set up a mock crime scene right inside the library to teach us about real police work. You will learn how officers look for clues, analyze evidence, and crack the case.
• July 29: Scrapbook Card Making
  Turn paper scraps and memory cutouts into personalized greeting cards. This session focuses on layering textures, utilizing decorative scissors, and arranging layouts to make three-dimensional cards. It is the perfect way to create a meaningful keepsake for someone special.
• August 5: Spy Games Training Camp
  Put your stealth and problem-solving skills to the test in our ultimate secret agent challenge. Participants will navigate laser-style yarn mazes, decode secret cyphers, and complete top-secret physical challenges. Earn your official library spy badge by completing all of the hidden objectives.
• August 12: Creative Choice Workshop
  Dive into a participant-led afternoon of creation featuring our most popular summer materials. This flexible session gives you full access to our crafting inventory to finish past projects or invent brand-new ones. It is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with friends and explore your favorite mediums.
• August 19: Summer Grand Finale Showcase
  Celebrate the end of an amazing summer with a special mystery activity and celebration. We will look back at all the amazing things we created and enjoy final, interactive games together. You won't want to miss the surprise activities we have planned to wrap up our summer journey.

Teen & Adult Creative Programming

In addition to children’s programming, the library will also offer creative opportunities for teens and adults throughout the summer.

Planned activities include:

• Crochet and granny square projects
• Finance education
• Textile and fabric crafts
• Mystery games
• Relaxed social “craft & chat” gatherings

These programs are intended to provide community members with opportunities to learn new skills, share ideas, and connect with others in a welcoming environment. Many activities will be beginner-friendly and designed for casual participation.

A Community Space for Everyone

Library organizers hope this summer’s programs will help strengthen community connections.

Most programs are free, drop-in friendly, and open to the public. Watch the library’s Facebook page and visit the library for schedules, updates, and additional event announcements throughout the summer.