04/30/2026
Summer starts in less than a month at the West Fargo Public Library! Read our full press release at https://wfpl.info/4vYJcg0
The West Fargo Public Library is gearing up for a summer of events for all ages, reading challenges, and Library on Wheels pop-ups.
The library will host its annual Summer Kickoff Party from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at 215 3rd St. E. The free open house will include crafts, games, refreshments, all-ages activities, and a model railroad display by local train enthusiasts.
The kickoff party marks the start of more than 100 events for youth and families this summer, such as weekly craft and STEM sessions for kids, teen programs, storytime, and free movie screenings. Programs exclusively for adults will continue throughout the summer, like book clubs, silent reading parties, senior social hours, and more. The full calendar is available at westfargolibrary.org.
The kickoff party is also an opportunity to prepare for the library’s Summer Boost reading challenge, in which participants of all ages earn prizes by tracking their reading and reaching milestones.
“Reading even a little bit each day during summer can help kids keep up their skills and ease the transition back to school in the fall,” said Lauren Nephew, youth services manager. “Just 15 minutes a day can go a long way in preventing the learning loss that can happen over summer break.”
Summer Boost isn’t just for kids. Teens, adults and children who aren’t yet reading are also encouraged to join. The challenge features different goals and prizes by age group. Children under 5, for example, are rewarded for early literacy activities rather than reading minutes. Registration opens May 1 at westfargolibrary.org, with tracking and rewards beginning June 1.
“Reading at any age can benefit mental health and cognitive function, reduce stress and improve sleep,” Nephew added.
Both West Fargo Public Library locations will be open all summer. The Main Library at the Lodoen Community Center is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Satellite Branch at West Fargo City Hall, which serves as an express version of the library, is open Mondays, noon to 6:30 p.m., and Tuesdays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Library on Wheels will also bring books and services to nine local parks and several community events throughout the summer. At each stop, visitors can browse and check out books, return materials, enjoy games and other activities, and sign up for or renew a library card. A valid West Fargo Public Library card is required to take books home, but all are welcome to browse books on-site and take part in activities. The Library on Wheels also delivers books to area daycares and senior living facilities year-round.
Learn more about summer programs and the West Fargo Public Library at westfargolibrary.org.
