Unearth a Story: Summer Library Program Kickoff

Let's dig into all things summer library programming! Explore creative, flexible, and high-energy ideas for your 2026 summer library program. From self-discovery to joyful connection, you will be refreshed and inspired as you excavate programming ideas that engage patrons of all ages.

Kick off the day with Robert Rivest, mindfulness and stress relief educator, in an interactive workshop designed to spark energy and jumpstart your summer library planning. Discover creative performing arts ideas that lift spirits and boost engagement through breathing, movement, smiling, and laughter—tools you can use with patrons and to recharge yourself.

Dig deeper into programming with Sherry Norfolk—storyteller, author, and teaching artist— who will lead a hands-on, highly interactive afternoon session packed with adaptable programming ideas for toddlers through adults. Explore decorations, promotion, community partnerships, and a wide range of theme-based activities that bring the Unearth a Story theme to life. Come ready to sing, dance, make crafts, learn stories, play games, and share ideas with colleagues.

At this in-person event, you will:

• Practice stress management techniques and mindfulness strategies
• Develop ideas for using humor and mime in summer programming 
• Explore flexible, adaptable programming strategies for toddlers through adults
• Discover ideas for decorations, promotion, and developing community relationships
• Experience a variety of program ideas addressing the America 250 theme

You and your SLP team will leave with a toolbox full of fresh discoveries, practical strategies, and inspiration to make this summer one to remember. Come dig with us!

Guest presenter Robert Rivest is the creator and founder of Wellbeing Laughter and The Rivest Method of Joyful Living and an internationally admired performer, teacher, and public speaker. Robert is a talented mindfulness and stress relief educator, an engaging corporate wellness presenter, a comic mime artist, and a gifted laughter yoga master trainer. Since 1990, Robert Rivest has given over 10,000 presentations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and across the United States. His mission is to use mindfulness, laughter, and the performing arts to bring greater health, happiness, and joy to individuals and organizations around the world.

Guest presenter Sherry Norfolk is an award-winning storyteller, author, and teaching artist, performing and leading residencies and professional development workshops nationally and in SE Asia. As a children’s and youth services librarian, Sherry received awards from organizations, such as the American Library Association, for developing and implementing innovative and creative library services. As a popular workshop leader, Sherry has led summer library program trainings and professional development workshops for libraries across the country, including Hawaii and Alaska. As a performing artist, she is a dynamic storyteller, telling well-crafted and age-appropriate folktales from around the world.

EVENT NOTES

Registration Details | Registration is limited. Deadline for registration is seven days prior to the event. Cancellations are requested 24 hours in advance of the event. 

Not Recorded | This event will not be recorded. If you register, please attend the live event.

Special Needs| SCKLS may be able to accommodate special needs with at least 48 hours' advance notice. Contact SCKLS Training Specialist Katherine Hughes. 

Meals | A lunch will be provided compliments of SCKLS. Standard, vegetarian, and gluten-free options will be available. Meal preference must be communicated at the time of registration. Individuals with food allergies should exercise caution and may bring their own lunch. SCKLS will reimburse meal costs up to $15 with the presentation of a receipt. 

Meeting Location: This event will be held in the Wichita Advanced Learning Library conference room located on the main floor at 711 W. 2nd St. in Wichita. Click here for Google Maps directions.

Building Access: The Wichita Advanced Learning Library will be open to attendees at 10 a.m. No attendees will be admitted before 10 a.m. For your convenience, please park in the west parking lot.