Musser Public Library

Teens looking for something to do this week? Join us at Maker Studio on Tuesday to create a beaded potted plant! 🌱

Tuesday, June 9, 2-3:30PM
Located in the Teen Center

It’ s summer at the library. That means the summer reading program has kicked off!

In 1956, children in grades 3-8 could participate in the summer reading program that centered around the “fishing pond” at the Musser Public Library. In order to “fish” in the pond, a child obtained a “license” from librarian Melba Clelland, who was in charge of the program. The “license” allowed the child to pull out a “fish” that had a specific book genre on the back. Once the child read and reported the book the child received a paper “fish.”

At the end of the program the boy and girl with the most “fish” was crowned king and queen at a party on the final day. There were 35 children that participated in 1956. Here is the Muscatine Journal August 11, 1956 clipping that shows the king and queen.

Things have changed a bit over 70 years! Our Summer Reading Program is now for all ages with prizes for everyone, not just a king and queen. And we don't ask for detailed book reports anymore, instead we want children to track the minutes they spend reading. Despite these differences, the goal remains the same: to read and have fun! Sign up today for Musser Public Library Summer Reading 2026 https://musserpubliclibrary.beanstack.com/users/sign_in