County News
The Lafayette County & Oxford Public Library is hosting one of its most active Summer Reading Programs yet, with free events scheduled through the end of July. The library’s summer schedule includes concerts, films, and interactive programs designed to connect people through fun, creativity, discovery, and community involvement.
“Summer’s the busiest time of year at public libraries,” said Meridith Wulff, MLIS, Head Librarian. “And like public libraries all over this country, we are celebrating not only reading, but learning and coming together as a community.”
Participation has already exceeded expectations. Nearly 400 people attended one of the first events. “We had to move Storytime to our foyer because we had 230 people show up,” Wulff said. “We have a very small space, but the turnout has been enormous.”
Here is a preview of some library events to consider adding to the family’s calendar this summer.
2025 Summer Reading Program
The Lafayette County & Oxford Public Library’s Summer Reading Program is open to all ages. Participants are encouraged to commit to reading every day about anything they are interested in, with no tracking or reading logs required.
“We just really don’t want it to sound like homework,” Wulff said. “It’s about community and pleasure.”
The 2025 program theme is “Add a Little Color to Your World.” It is inspired by the national summer library theme, “Color our World,” with activities focused on art and color happening at the 14 branches of First Regional Library.
Visit Lafayette County & Oxford Public Library to sign up and get a free bookmark to use while you read.
Adult Programs
Piecing Together Family History Through Quilts – June 26
Presented in partnership with Burns-Belfry Museum and the Lafayette County Historical and Genealogical Society, artist Jean Freeman, of Atlanta’s Sowing Threads of Memories, will share quilts that blend genealogy with textile art.
Tiny Stacks Concert with Michael Farris Smith – June 28 
The library’s new Tiny Stacks concert series begins with local author and musician Michael Farris Smith. He’ll perform a stripped-down set upstairs in the library, read from his new book, and sign copies of his book and album.
Candlemaking with The Velvet Burn – July 1
Enjoy a hands-on experience creating your own scented candle. Space is limited and registration is required for the morning or evening session.
Conversation Cafe with Sean Ennis – July 30
Start your morning with coffee, pastries, and a conversation with author Sean Ennis about his book “Hope and Wild Panic.”
Kids and Families Events and Programs
Photography Basics Talk & Walk with Erin Austen Abbott – June 26
Kids ages 8 through 17 can learn the fundamentals of photography using your camera or phone, then put your skills to the test during a guided photo walk around the library and skate park. Registration is required.
Puppet Power! with Nancy Opalko – June 28
Children and families will enjoy two puppet performances, followed by a hands-on activity where they can create their own puppets to take home.
Pokémon Playdate – July 7
Calling all young Pokémon fans for a fun-filled Pokémon Playdate. Bring your cards to trade, show off your collection, and meet other fans for games and friendly competition. Perfect for kids who love all things Pokémon!
Live Animals with Freedom Ranch Wildlife Center – July 30
This evening program features live, rehabilitated animals brought in by Freedom Ranch Wildlife Center.
Some events require registration, which can be done at firstregional.org, by calling, or swinging by the library. Check the online calendar or pick up a printed copy at the library.
The Lafayette County & Oxford Public Library welcomes community input. Send your ideas for programs and events to oxf@firstregional.org.