Something big is making waves at the ORL! Summer Reading Club 2026 begins June 15, and this year’s theme is Under the Sea. From glowing twilight waters to mysterious ocean trenches, Summer Reading Club invites children, teens, and families to dive into a summer filled with stories, creativity, learning, and adventure.
Even better? ORL branches across the region are hosting an ocean of exciting Summer Reading Club programs and special events all summer long.
Explore Summer Reading Club Events Across the ORL
This summer’s Under the Sea theme is inspiring programs that dive deep into oceans, ecosystems, prehistoric life, exploration, creativity, and discovery.
Families can look forward to:
- Special guest presenters
- Ocean-themed activities
- Science and nature programs
- Interactive online events
- Creative challenges
- Reading adventures
- Prize opportunities
- Branch activities and celebrations
Programs and events will vary by location, so be sure to check our online events calendar or speak to staff at your local branch for details.
Meet The Fossil Guy!
This summer, families can explore the wonders of ancient oceans with Bob O’Donnell, also known as The Fossil Guy.
The interactive Under the Sea fossil exhibit features real marine fossils, from trilobites and ammonites to giant prehistoric sea life. Participants can learn about life beneath ancient oceans and even receive a free fossilized shark’s tooth while supplies last.
Young fossil fans can also enter for a chance to win a Fossil Kit donated by The Fossil Guy. One lucky winner will be selected by random draw later this summer.
Online Exploration With Ocean Wise
Summer Reading Club participants can also join three exciting online presentations from Ocean Wise this summer, each inspired by this year’s Under the Sea theme. All three online events are free, designed for school-age participants, and require registration.
JAWS — Introducing the Superhero of the Reef
Thursday, 9 July, 2:00–2:45 p.m.
Presented by Ocean Wise, this jaw-some online event explores the surprising world of sharks and their important role in coral reef ecosystems. Participants will learn about shark adaptations, ocean habitats, and discover a softer side to these fascinating and misunderstood creatures. Registration required.
Arctic Explorers
Wednesday, 15 July, 2:00–2:45 p.m.
Embark on an exciting journey into the Arctic. Participants will explore northern ecosystems, Arctic wildlife, and Indigenous cultures while learning about one of the planet’s most unique environments. Registration required.
Babies! A Journey Through Lifecycles
Thursday, 23 July, 2:00–2:45 p.m.
Aren’t babies just the cutest? This engaging online presentation explores the different phases of animal lifecycles and the fascinating adaptations that help young animals survive and grow. Registration required.
Participants in our SRC online presentations will also be entered into book draws.
More Than a Reading Challenge
Summer Reading Club at the ORL is about much more than checking off books. It’s about discovering new interests, trying creative activities, exploring the world around us, and making reading part of the best memories of summer. This year’s Summer Reading Club includes:
- Official BC Summer Reading Club Reading Logs
- ORL-created Challenge Trackers
- Prize draws
- Medals
- Weekly themes
- Curated booklists
- Online and in-branch events
- Flexible ways to participate for all ages
Whether your family is reading together before bedtime, listening to audiobooks on a road trip, exploring fossils, learning about Arctic wildlife, or completing underwater-themed challenges, every page and every activity is part of the summer adventure.
For more information about reading logs, challenge trackers, prizes, and important dates, please visit the ORL Summer Reading Club page.
Need More Help?
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