Summer Time Fun
It's too hot to be outside this year, which is why the New Orleans Public Library (NOPL) is announcing a full summer of fun, reading challenges, free programs for all ages, and two museum partnerships to keep the families entertained under cool air conditioning.
NOPL's Executive Director and City Librarian Emily Painton announced that the new partnered institutions will be available to all cardholders over the age of 18 this summer.
"As the school year ends and families are looking for something fun, free, and educational to do with their children, we hope they think of the Library," Painton said in a press release.
Through the museum partnerships, Library cardholders living in Orleans Parish can reserve admission to the Tate, Etienne, Prevost Interpretive Center (TEP Center), as well as a civil rights museum located inside the Lower 9th Ward's McDonough 19 building. Cardholder can also book a guided tour of the French Quarter Galleries at the Historic New Orleans Collection, a museum dedicated to the preservation oof the history and culture of New Orleans and Gulf South.
"With the addition of the TEP Interpretive Center and the Historic New Orleans Collection, we're proud to offer free admission to a total of 14 museums and attractions across the city. Both the HNOC and the TEP Center highlight often overlooked stories, and we hope partnering with them helps open more eyes to these histories, while also removing financial barriers to accessing our city's many cultural institutions," said Painton.
The library has two months of full events ready to be explored with this year's Summer Fun & Reading Challenge running from June 1, 2025 through July 31, 2025. Everyone who logs 800 minutes of reading and completes a variety of library-themed activities will earn a prize—including a limited-edition tote bag designed by local artist Sean Clark.
More Info
This summer will be full of events, activities, prizes, and more for children, teens, and adults of all ages. The beloved tradition and return of the Summer Fun & Reading Contest is a fun way to keep reading skills sharp, make new discoveries, and create unforgettable memories.
Funding for the 2025 Summer Fun & Reading Program also comes from the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund, the Jazz & Heritage Foundation, and Raising Canes. All local residents are encouraged to register, since a prize will be given to each participant.
Pre-registration is open now. Visit summerfun.nolalibrary.org to learn more or visit any Library location to sign up. The Culture Pass can be reserved at culturepass.nolalibrary.org.
