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For immediate release:
“Oceans of Possibilities,” Programs, Book Clubs, Free Lunches and Summer Fun Offered at Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach
In-person and online programming includes summer reading program,
free activities and digital library
WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (May 27, 2022) – Free summer fun and learning at the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach is now underway to support all ages in the community. In addition to popular programs, such as small group tutoring and free lunches for school-age children, new programs include Book Clubs and Creative Writing Classes for elementary-age children and baby sign language classes on Sundays at 2 p.m. The library also features “Oceans of Possibilities,” a summer campaign featuring dozens of educational, art and reading programs focused on oceans, aquatic animals, Florida waterways, conservation and more.
For those who prefer a virtual experience, the Mandel Public Library’s growing digital library features an expansive offering of books, movies, magazines and more. These can be accessed for free with a library card, so you can enjoy in your home, by the pool and on any summer travels.
Also, the library now offers family meetings with a licensed social worker for free, one-on-one case management, therapeutic support, and advocacy for life’s most difficult challenges. This program is offered Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., by appointment or walk-in. For information or to make an appointment, call (561) 868-7750.
“Oceans of Possibilities” Free Summer Events & Activities
It’s not just the beach that offers an ocean of possibilities! This summer, the Mandel Public Library is offering a two-month program featuring reading, learning, and entertainment for all ages.
Oceans of Possibilities at Your City Library features:
- FREE summer reading programs that encourage the entire family to read with gift books and other prizes (details below)
- FREE events and activities for all ages including lectures, art classes, technology classes, musical performances, and more
- Themed programs for adults include Virtual Reality: Underwater Adventures on June 9; a presentation by Loggerhead Marinelife Center on June 17 and July 9; learn how to paint fish portraits with artist Chessy Ricca on June 21 and 28
- Children can Dive into Discovery with themed STEAM programs on Tuesdays from 2-4 p.m.; and Shark Tooth Mania with Cox Science Center on July 9
- FREE Grab & Go activity kits for all ages to bring home the fun
- FREE small group tutoring for kids and teens in reading and math with certified teachers
- FREE nutritious lunches for kids and teens ages 18 and under
- PLUS, patrons can always enjoy FREE ebooks, audiobooks, music, movies, and more through the digital library
For a complete schedule of classes and programs, visit: wpbcitylibrary.org.
Free Meals for Kids/Teens
The Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach, in partnership with the School District of Palm Beach County, offers free meals for kids and teens when school lunches are not available. During the summer, the library becomes an official Summer BreakSpot and offers FREE nutritious lunches and snacks during their summer program to kids and teens ages 18 and under. The free meals program helps to eliminate barriers so all members of the public can enjoy and access important library services. The lunches and snacks are offered on weekdays, June 1 – July 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the 3rd floor in Kidspace. This program is sponsored by the USDA Summer Food Service Program.
Summer Reading Program
The Summer Reading Program is back for all ages, and completely digital. Participants use the Beanstack app, making it super easy to digitally track and log your reading hours on your phone, computer or tablet. Readers can earn prizes by reading.
The app provides an easy tool to track reading goals and recommended reading lists by age group, interest, school requirements and more. The library recommends making reading a priority for kids and teens during their school break to prevent the summer slide. Families can read together and register under one account for multiple family members, so adults can easily model this important behavior for the children in the lives. Visit wpbcitylibrary.org to get started.
New Book Clubs for Elementary Students
New this summer, Mandel Public Library is offering two Book Clubs for elementary-age students led by Ms. Stacey, our certified teacher. Students entering 2nd and 3rd grades will meet on Mondays, 1-1:45 p.m., and students entering 4th and 5th grades will meet on Mondays, 2-2:45 p.m. Registration is required by June 15.
Free Online Events & Activities
The Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach continues to offer FREE online programs and activities this summer to engage and entertain kids, teens and adults. Patrons can enjoy some of their favorite library programs, including fitness, arts and crafts, technology, storytimes, and many more. All programs are offered virtually on the library’s social media pages or live on Zoom. For a complete schedule of programs and to register, visit wpbcitylibrary.org.
Digital Library: Free E-Books, Music, Movies & More
Connect 24/7 to the digital library and access thousands of FREE e-books, audiobooks, movies, music, and more online at wpb.org/digitallibrary. Using the library’s free apps, cardholders can access materials on their devices anytime, anywhere. For those who don’t already have a library card, anyone can register online or by phone for immediate access to the catalogue.
For more information about the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach’s Virtual Summer, please visit the library website at wpbcitylibrary.org or call (561) 868-7701 (TTY: 800-955-8771). The Virtual Summer programs are sponsored, in part, by the West Palm Beach Library Foundation, which raises funds to support vital community programs at the library.
About the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach
Founded in 1895, the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach has evolved from a modest Reading Room along the waterfront to an innovative and cutting-edge facility located in the heart of Downtown West Palm Beach. The Mandel Public Library provides a wide range of programming for kids, teens, and adults focused on creating inspired lives by connecting people with information and ideas. Programming is supported by the West Palm Beach Library Foundation. For more information, visit mycitylibrary.org or call (561) 868-7700 (TTY: 800-955-8771).
