The Field Library opens its doors once again for a fun summer. On July 23 and 24, children will be able to enjoy two free workshops in the heart of Peekskill. These are Shark Habitat and Parchment Post, two interactive initiatives designed to instill a love of reading in children in a playful and engaging way. These events will begin at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. The city library has held similar events in recent summers.

Shark Habitat will be an experience for children aged 5 to 11. The library staff will begin with a reading of books about sharks, marine life, and ocean conservation. Afterwards, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and participate in hands-on activities related to the theme. For example, in July 2024, The Field Library led the creation of mini water tanks, through which children learned about shark habitats by making a replica in a glass jar with glow-in-the-dark stones. In 2023, a workshop for sea explorers was also organized.

Sarah Burstell brought her two children, ages 5 and 7, to last year’s activity and recalled that spots filled up in less than two days. “I thought it would be a good idea to invite my nieces as well, but when my sister tried to register, there was no space left. It was a very fun experience, and we plan to repeat it this year. My children love sharks,” she said.

Registration is required for this event due to the limited capacity of the children’s room where it will be held. Additionally, library staff need to prepare the materials that will be used for the craft, which is often a key part of the experience. Registration can be completed by phone or through the library’s official website.

Parchment Post, scheduled for Thursday, July 24, is designed for children aged 7 and older. In this workshop, participants will learn how to write, format, and send letters by mail. Space and materials are limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive on time. Similar events have been held at the library in previous years. For example, in 2022, children worked with tea-dyed paper that simulated scrolls and practiced ancient calligraphy.

These workshops are part of The Field Library’s summer agenda, which seeks to connect children with books in a playful and community-focused environment. Upcoming events include a robotics program and a treasure hunt. For more information on the schedule, please visit the library’s website.