For the families, parents, and young bookworms staying with us, the J.R. Huffman Public Library is presenting a fantastic, educational lineup of summer activities. They are hosting completely Free Weekly Story Times and an upgraded, age-specific Summer Reading Program. Whether you want to keep your toddler entertained with fun morning crafts or want to prevent the “summer slide” for your elementary school student, these library sessions add an enriching, practical layer to your mid-week family retreat.
The Ultimate Reading Showdown
Taking place throughout June and July, these focused programs gather local children, parents, and youth educators to share the timeless joy of literacy. Young attendees will learn the authentic, social skills of group listening, creative crafting, and interactive learning. Led by the knowledgeable and passionate staff of our hometown library, the sessions break down early reading development into simple, playful steps that any child can enjoy, regardless of their current reading level. The educational venue is set at the historic J.R. Huffman Public Library building right in downtown Hemphill, making it an incredibly short and easy drive from your campsite.
The atmosphere at these library events is collaborative, playful, and deeply rewarding. Little ones are encouraged to ask questions during book readings, showcase their unique arts and crafts projects, and connect with a warm network of local friends. What participants remember most is the incredible excitement of checking out new books and the inspiring feeling of finishing the week with a massive splash at the library’s official summer water party.
Cultivating a Beautiful Community
There is something quietly meaningful about a public program that preserves traditional storytelling while fostering true community connection. Library reading programs aren’t just an excellent way to pass a warm summer morning; they are a vital tradition that inspires imagination and strengthens local community ties. Learning and playing alongside native East Texas library educators ensures your family is getting a warm, welcoming experience perfectly tailored to hometown Southern hospitality.
For families staying at Mid Lake Campground, stepping away from the water to attend these mid-morning sessions offers a delightful change of pace. You can spend your morning watching your kids laugh and learn in a cool, air-conditioned library, head back out to the campground for a picnic lunch, and return to the lake with a stack of fresh books to read together on the cabin porch. It’s a wonderful, enriching way to experience the family heritage of Hemphill.
Plan Your Library Outing
Don’t “sleep on this opportunity”—these free library programs are highly anticipated by area families, so you’ll want to update your calendar accordingly! Weekly story times run tightly every Wednesday morning at 10:00 AM (note that there will be No Story Time on June 17th, returning strong on June 24th with a fun camping theme). For the big Summer Reading Program running July 6th through July 10th, the library has carefully revised its schedule by age group: Kindergarten through 1st Grade meets from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, while 2nd through 4th Grade meets from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. Review the revised times, pack a change of clothes for the big Friday water party, and walk away with beautiful summer memories.
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Location: J.R. Huffman Public Library, 375 Sabine St, Hemphill, TX 75948
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Weekly Story Time: Wednesdays at 10:00 AM (Next session: June 24th – “Camping” Theme)
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Summer Reading Week: July 6th – July 10th (K–1st: 10:30 AM | 2nd–4th: 1:30 PM)
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Admission Fee: Completely Free educational programs open to all visitors
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What to Bring: A library card (or a smile to sign up!), your reading goals, and a towel for the July 10th Water Party!
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Contact: (409) 787-4829
