Unearth a Story Library Programs Connect Communities to the Past

This summer, ARI joined the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) to bring the 2026 theme — Unearth a Story — to communities across the region. Rather than traveling to dozens of locations during our busiest season, ARI partnered with local libraries to expand access to engaging library programs that introduce children and families to archaeology, science, and discovery. 

Preparing Libraries for a Summer of Discovery

In April, ARI hosted one of several educational workshops designed to prepare library staff for a season of exploration and learning. Six staff members from three regional libraries participated in a special training experience designed to help them bring the excitement of archaeological discovery into their summer reading programs. 

The workshop emphasized the value of hands-on learning, encouraging participants to ask questions, make observations, and think like archaeologists. Participants explored inquiry-based learning strategies, practiced leading activities, and received a ready-to-use toolkit that would help them confidently bring the Unearth a Story theme to life in their own communities. 

Bringing Archaeology Activities to Kids and Families 

Throughout the summer, participating libraries will lead their own programs featuring archaeology activities for kids like artifact-inspired crafts and interactive science-based exploration, helping young learners develop critical thinking and observation skills while having fun. These experiences are uniquely designed to spark curiosity about the world hidden beneath our feet while connecting kids and families to local heritage and history education.

Expanding Educational Outreach Through Community Partnerships 

By equipping library staff with the tools and confidence to lead programs independently, ARI is able to extend its educational outreach far beyond our physical site. These partnerships strengthen opportunities for community archaeology by making archaeological discovery more accessible and engaging for the public.

Libraries serve as trusted community spaces where learning can happen year-round, making them valuable partners in supporting youth education programs that inspire curiosity and lifelong learning. Through initiatives like this, ARI can help communities explore the past while building connections to the people, places, and stories that shape our region.

We are grateful to our participating library partners for bringing Unearth a Story to life this summer and look forward to seeing how their communities embrace a season of discovery.