Join us in celebrating 250 years of the United States! OC Public Libraries is offering a special Read Across America year-long reading challenge, in-branch programming, crafts, author events, reading lists, and more!
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Reading Challenge
Reading can take you anywhere! Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States by joining the Read Across America Challenge at OC Public Libraries. Log reading throughout the year as you explore new stories and adventures from coast to coast. Read and complete activities to earn badges along the way.
Select your goal of 100 Books, 100 Hours, or 100 Days.
A former textbook writer, Steve Sheinkin is now making amends by writing books young people might actually want to read. He's the author of fast-paced, cinematic nonfiction including Bomb, Fallout, Undefeated, Born to Fly, The Port Chicago 50, and Impossible Escape.
Complimentary books available, while supplies last. No registration required, all ages welcome. Early arrival suggested.
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Author Kate Messner
Thursday, July 23, 2026 at 1:00pm Tustin Library 345 E. Main Street Tustin, CA 92780
New York Times bestselling author Kate Messner is passionately curious and writes books that encourage kids to wonder, too. Her titles include award-winning picture books like Over and Under the Snow, the popular Ranger in Time chapter book series, and the History Smashers graphic nonfiction series.
Complimentary books available, while supplies last. No registration required, all ages welcome. Early arrival suggested.
Programs
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Patriotic Crafts Friday, June 12, 2026 at 10:00am Laguna Woods Library 24266 El Toro Road Laguna Woods, CA 92637
Get ready to celebrate Flag Day and Independence Day with this special all ages craft workshop! Join us to make pinwheels, pennants, and more to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday.
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Puzzle Swap and USA Trivia Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 4:00pm Garden Grove Tibor Rubin Library 11962 Bailey St. Garden Grove, CA 92845
Come to the library with puzzles or board games you’d like to trade and take our USA trivia quiz in honor of our nation’s semi quincentennial birthday!
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4th of July Craft Monday, June 29, 2026 at 10:00am Villa Park Library 17865 Santiago Blvd. Villa Park, CA 92861
Make a fun craft to celebrate Independence Day! All supplies provided, while supplies last.
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Crafty Crew: Star-Spangled Burgers & Dogs Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 11:00am Garden Grove Chapman Library 9182 Chapman Avenue Garden Grove, CA 92841
Join the Crafty Crew for a hands-on adventure where creativity takes center stage! Spark imagination, make something amazing, and take home your very own star-spangled burger or dog!
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4th of July Bike Decorating Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 4:00pm Garden Grove Tibor Rubin Library 11962 Bailey St. Garden Grove, CA 92845
Bring your bike, trike, or scooter to decorate for the 4th of July! All supplies provided, while supplies last.
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Craig Newton: An American Musical Journey Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 10:00am Laguna Woods Library 24266 El Toro Road Laguna Woods, CA 92637
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with musician Craig Newton, who will be sharing popular songs from a variety of time periods in our nation’s history using 10 different instruments.
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USA 250th Anniversary Trivia Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 5:30pm Tustin Library 345 E. Main Street Tustin, CA 92780
Celebrate 250 years of the United States with an evening of trivia, surprising history, pop culture, and all-American fun! Test your knowledge of the people, moments, and milestones that shaped the nation as you compete for exciting 250th anniversary-themed prizes. Bring your friends, your team spirit, and your best trivia skills!
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Civics 101: Celebrate America’s 250th with Author Kitty Felde Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 2:00pm El Toro Library 24672 Raymond Way Lake Forest, CA 92630
How much do you know about American democracy? Find out in this fun family trivia game hosted by author and journalist, Kitty Felde.
