SIDNEY, Neb. — The Sidney Public Library celebrated the end of its 2025 Summer Reading Program, “Color Our World,” with strong participation across all age groups and a vibrant calendar of events that brought creativity, learning and community engagement to life.

A total of 248 readers signed up for this summer’s program — 141 children, 30 teens and 77 adults. Of those, 153 participants completed the program, including 83 children, 14 teens and 56 adults.

Children in the program logged more than 33,200 minutes of reading. Teen participants read a total of 81 books, with the top reader finishing 41. Adult readers completed 350 books, with the leading participant reading 27.

The program kicked off May 31 with a Fun Day hosted by Friends of the Sidney Public Library, featuring games, snacks and registration activities. Events throughout June and July included themed storytimes, crafts, an art party led by local artist Cindi Egging, the “What Should I Draw?” art contest, and a family-friendly magic show by Jeff Quinn.

The library hosted several “Little Masterpieces” sessions for toddlers, “Craftivity” events for all ages, and “Golden Sower” book days focused on award-winning children’s literature. The program concluded July 24 with a wrap-up party that featured games, crafts, prizes, and piñatas.

Library staff credited the program’s success to 63 local donors, volunteers, parents and everyone who participated.

Planning is already underway for the 2026 Summer Reading Program, which will carry the theme “Unearth a Story,” focused on dinosaurs, archaeology and paleontology.