Tuesday, July 7, 2026

July "Total Reads" Blog

 

The year is speeding by at breakneck speed and we have had some dino-fabulous fun at DPL this summer. Our Youth Services room now has 2 beautiful dinosaurs courtesy of local artist David Thompson: the orange and green Stegosaurus outside the entry, and a diving pterodactyl on the wall over the easy readers. If you haven’t been in Youth Services lately, go take a look at our new dino-tastic décor.

There are some great programs coming up. Don’t miss Revolutionary Stories: Celebrating the US and the Declaration of Independence, 1776-2026 (tomorrow) this Wednesday, July 8th from 5pm to 7pm. There will be activities for all ages, a character gallery of some of the people who were alive during the time of the American Revolution, and educational displays. The main showcase will be a 6pm reenactment of the first reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8, 1776. Local actor Chuck Puckett will be portraying Colonel John Nixon, who was the historic first reader. This program is made possible by a partnership with the Stephens Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Tennessee Valley Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, local author and historian Peggy Towns, local actor Chuck Puckett, quilters Marty Lawson, Laura Miller, and Emily Whittier. We hope you can all join us to celebrate this historic milestone for our country.

The July task for the Adult Reading Challenge is to read a book set anywhere in America that you have been or would like to visit. Our country celebrates 250 years this month so read a book that allows you to experience a part of our large and diverse country. The United States of America has something for everyone, from frozen mountains to sandy beaches. Where is your favorite place or a place you hope to visit?

Happy Reading!