The Dorchester County libraries have an absolutely stacked summer line-up of free and engaging programs for people of all ages, from small babies to adults. As you’re planning your summer, make sure you take a look at their 2026 Summer Program Guide and register for any programs that need it so you can enjoy all the library has to offer! I know I will be keeping the guide on hand all summer as I plan out my weeks. Here’s a few things that caught our eye for kids of all ages at the Ashley River and Summerville branches, but definitely look at the guide yourselves because there may be other things that are super interesting for your family and your children’s age groups.
Unearth A Story: Join the library and the SC Aquarium to meet live animals and complete fun activities! This program will run on Saturday. June 6th from 12:30-1:30pm at the Ashley River branch and on Saturday, June 13th from 1-2pm at the Summerville branch. No registration required, attendance first come first serve.
Dinosaur Talks: Join the College of Charleston's Mace Brown Museum for a special presentation on dinosaurs and other natural history topics! They'll have fossil specimens to show and touch. This program will run on Saturday, June 13th at 10:30am at the Ashley River branch and Wednesday, July 8th at the Summerville branch.
Forts & Families: Head to the Ashley River Park branch from 6:30-9pm and bring blankets and pillows and join them after-hours for a chance to build a fort in the library! First you'll build and then you'll have a chance to read as a family inside your fort.
Back to School Clothing Swap: Who needs back to school shopping when we have back to school SWAPPING at the Ashley River library? Donate gently used baby and kids clothes throughout the week and come back Saturday morning to fill a bag with new-to-you items! Clothing drop off during the week of July 27: Drop off to the front desk anytime with shopping on Saturday August 1st. If this interests you keep your eye out for more details!
Special Note: On Tuesdays & Thursdays from June 9 - August 4 from 12-1pm in partnership with the Lowcountry Food Bank, the Summerville branch will be serving nutritious lunches to children during summer break. There is no eligibility process for children to participate. Children will receive 5 days' worth of shelf stable meals. Children may stay and eat one of their meals while they participate in a provided activity or grab and go. (First come, first serve. While supplies last).
