The Portsmouth Public Library is packing up the paint, folding the paper, and hitting the road! This summer, kids across the county can dive into the world of art, science, and imagination with the library’s Summer Reading Traveling Kits—a free series of hands-on programs designed for children ages 12 and under.
Each week, the kits will stop at different library branches—including Portsmouth, South Webster, Lucasville, New Boston, and Wheelersburg—and even hit the road on the Bookmobile, bringing fun and creativity to local parks, churches, and neighborhoods.
Here’s a look at what young creators can expect from each exciting program from the Portsmouth Public Library:
🎨 Paper Palooza
What it is: A paper playground where kids can craft tangram-inspired portraits and try their hand at origami.
What they’ll learn: Tangrams are ancient Chinese puzzles made of geometric shapes—great for problem-solving. Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, builds fine motor skills and patience.
When & Where:
- June 10 – South Webster Library (4:00 PM)
- June 18 – Portsmouth Library (2:00 PM)
- June 20 – New Boston Library (4:00 PM)
- June 25 – Lucasville Library (4:00 PM)
- July 3 – Wheelersburg Library (2:00 PM)
- July 11 – Bookmobile at Sunshine Church of Christ (12:30–1:30 PM)
🖌️ Mixed Media Art Junk Journals
What it is: A creative journaling experience with multiple art stations using paint, paper, markers, and more.
What they’ll learn: Mixed media combines different materials to create unique artwork. Junk journaling encourages self-expression and storytelling through art.
When & Where:
- June 3 – South Webster Library (4:00 PM)
- June 11 – Portsmouth Library (2:00 PM)
- June 18 – Lucasville Library (4:00 PM)
- June 26 – Wheelersburg Library (2:00 PM)
- July 2 – Bookmobile at Porter Township Park (1:30–2:30 PM)
- July 7 – New Boston Library (4:00 PM)
🎨 Giant Pendulum Painting
What it is: Paint meets physics! Kids will create swinging masterpieces with pendulums.
What they’ll learn: This hands-on activity blends art and science, demonstrating motion, gravity, and creativity. Warning: Messy fun ahead—wear old clothes!
When & Where:
- June 4 – Portsmouth Library (2:00 PM)
- June 11 – Lucasville Library (4:00 PM)
- June 20 – Wheelersburg Library (2:00 PM)
- June 30 – New Boston Library (4:00 PM)
- July 8 – South Webster Library (4:00 PM)
- July 18 – Bookmobile at Shawnee Nature Center (12:00–1:00 PM)
🗿 Sculpt Your World
What it is: A hands-on sculpting adventure using air-dry clay, pipe cleaners, and aluminum foil.
What they’ll learn: Kids will experiment with 3D art techniques and materials, boosting fine motor skills and spatial awareness.
When & Where:
- June 4 – Lucasville Library (4:00 PM)
- June 12 – Wheelersburg Library (2:00 PM)
- June 18 – Bookmobile at Lett Terrace (3:00–5:00 PM)
- June 20 – Bookmobile at Shawnee Nature Center (12:00–1:00 PM)
- June 23 – New Boston Library (4:00 PM)
- July 1 – South Webster Library (4:00 PM)
- July 9 – Portsmouth Public Library (2:00 PM)
🌈 Colors of Science
What it is: Mini experiments and crafts that explore the science behind light and color.
What they’ll learn: Kids will discover how rainbows are made, how light bends, and why colors mix the way they do—all while crafting.
When & Where:
- June 4 – Bookmobile at Crestview Community (4:15–5:15 PM)
- June 9 – New Boston Library (4:00 PM)
- June 17 – South Webster Library (4:00 PM)
- June 25 – Portsmouth Library (2:00 PM)
- July 2 – Lucasville Library (4:00 PM)
- July 10 – Wheelersburg Library (2:00 PM)
🖼️ Majestic Masterpieces
What it is: A fun-filled intro to art history where kids paint “ceilings” like Michelangelo, block print designs, and decorate “Ming Dynasty” ceramics.
What they’ll learn: Art history comes alive as children explore iconic techniques from the Italian Renaissance and ancient China.
When & Where:
- June 5 – Wheelersburg Library (2:00 PM)
- June 16 – New Boston Library (4:00 PM)
- June 24 – South Webster Library (4:00 PM)
- July 2 – Portsmouth Library (2:00 PM)
- July 9 – Lucasville Library (4:00 PM)
All of these creative, educational, and FREE programs are part of the Scioto County Library’s Summer Reading Program, helping kids beat the summer slump while having a blast. Whether your child loves to paint, sculpt, fold, or explore science, there’s something for every budding artist or curious mind.
To learn more or find the full schedule, stop by your local library branch or follow the Portsmouth Public Library on social media. Let the creativity begin!