The Kenton County Public Library invites readers of all ages to participate in the 2025 Summer Reading Quest: Heroes, Myths & Legends, which will run from June 1 through July 31. This free program encourages reading, creativity, and discovery through themed events, interactive activities and exciting prizes.

Participants can track their daily reading using a paper log available at all library locations or the free Beanstack app. Read whatever you want, for however long you want. The goal is simply to make reading a daily habit. As milestones are met, prizes are awarded. Prizes are available while supplies last. T-shirt sizes may be limited.

Youth Prizes (Ages 0–12)

• 5 days of reading: Vinyl sticker
• 10 days: Free book
• 15 days: T-shirt or canvas tote
• Keep going to win a prize from the prize machine and earn entries into a drawing for $50 Visa gift cards – one prize and entry for every 5 days of reading

Adult & Teen Prizes (Ages 13+)

• 15 days of reading: Choice of an insulated water bottle or canvas tote
• Keep going to earn entries into the $100 Visa gift card grand prize drawings—one entry for every 5 days of reading

Teens and adults can purchase a shirt for $10 (cash or check) starting at the kickoff events. Supplies are limited. 

“The Kenton County Public Library has offered a Summer Reading Program since 1931,” said Dave Schroeder, the library's executive director. “When children continue reading over the summer, they are more likely to retain skills and avoid learning loss. And when adults read, they set a powerful example showing young readers that reading is a lifelong habit worth following.”

Celebrate the start of Summer Reading with these kickoff events:

Erlanger Branch – Friday, May 30, 5–7 p.m.

Participate in challenges, meet a princess, face mythical beasts, conquer an obstacle course and enjoy pizza while supplies last. Costumes encouraged!

Independence Branch – Saturday, May 31, 12–2:30 p.m.

Join us for medieval fun featuring archery, swordplay, jousting lessons, an inflatable maze and a royal Knighting Ceremony. Costumes encouraged and free Chameleon Ice Snoballs while supplies last!

Covington Branch – Saturday, May 31, 6–8 p.m.

Join us for a mini-Renaissance Faire fit for a king or queen. Grab a bite to eat, shop local vendors, and revel in royal entertainment, including a bounce house castle!

The Summer Reading Celebration is supported by the Friends of the Kenton County Public Library, the Kenton County Public Library Foundation, Snappy Tomato Pizza, Strike and Spare, We Rock the Spectrum Northern Kentucky, Texas Roadhouse and Chick-fil-A Fort Wright.

Visit kentonlibrary.org/src for full details, prize lists and how to get started.

• Best for ages 18 months and up
• Free to attend, registration is not required
• Pizza will be served after the concert while supplies last

A co-worker mentioned she was going to Hocking Hills for the first time. Hocking Hills, being my happy place, I immediately got excited. After compiling a list of my favorite spots for her, I decided to share it with you as well.

Hocking Hills is just over two hours from Cincinnati, making it a great last-minute spring break or weekend trip.

Where to Eat

• Kindred Spirits, situated on the grounds of Cedar Falls Inn and Spa, serves exceptional cuisine. Be sure to walk around the property before or after dinner and check out the gift shop next door. I do recommend a reservation for dinner.
• Coffee Emporium is an excellent spot for a treat and a good cup of coffee.
• Grandma Faye's Grocery and Deli is a small grocery store that serves homemade food and is a great place to connect to Wi-Fi.
• Home Tavern Bar and Grille & Hungry Buffalo are nearby restaurants worth checking out.

Adventures

Ziplining

• Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
• Valley Zipline Tours

I've had the thrill of ziplining at both locations, and while each offered an incredible experience worth trying, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours was my favorite!

Hiking Trails

Hocking Hills has some of the most scenic hiking trails.

• Cedar Falls is my absolute favorite!
• Ash Cave is a stunning trail where you might stumble upon groups drumming and dancing (see video below).

• Devil’s Bathtub, located along the Old Man’s Cave trail, is an incredible sight to see. If you start at the lodge, it’s just a few minutes into the trail.
• Rockbridge & Rock Cave are both worth exploring!
• The Hocking Hills State Park website offers information on guided hikes and educational talks.

I have explored almost every trail there and have never been disappointed. 

Additional Activities

• Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

I did the Memorial Day train ride a few years ago. We really enjoyed the scenic ride with historical stops. Be sure to check the calendar and book tickets in advance. 

• Ravenwood Castle 

I recently discovered that Hocking Hills has a castle, and it’s now on my must-visit list!

I haven't tried canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, golfing or rock climbing in Hocking Hills yet, but all of these activities are available.

Shopping & Unique Finds

If you love browsing for treasures, these places are worth a visit:

• Hocking Hills Market
• Hocking Hills Flea Market

Unwind

• The Spa at the Inn at Cedar Falls is fantastic if you're looking to relax with a massage.

Lodging

There is a plethora of lodging to choose from in Hocking Hills and I've stayed at several. 

• The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls offers a lodge, yurts, cottages, lofts, geodomes and cabins. I have stayed in one of the cabins and loved it. Heads up, there is no TV but the deck overlooking the woods made up for that! 
• The Grand Oak Cabin is perfect for a large group. I stayed here with several cousins and aunts for one of my cousins' 40th birthday. We enjoyed the serene property, open common space and hot tub. 
• Blue Rose Cabins was just a one-night stay. It was honestly so long ago that I do not remember the specifics, but it does have a hot tub.
• Valo Vasha, formerly known as Cozy Cabins, offers a variety of cabin options. We've stayed in them all, but the A-frame is my favorite—likely because it was where we stayed during our first visit to Hocking Hills.

I clearly love Hocking Hills State Park and the surrounding area. Let me know if you have any questions or favorite spots I missed.

Cool Places you can drive to.

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Kari Jones: Outreach Branch Manager

Kari’s journey with KCPL began 25 years ago as a shelver. Since then, she has worn many hats, including assistant programmer, children's services coordinator, homebound manager, and most recently, program coordinator. Her deep passion for outreach, ability to connect with the community, and steadfast dedication to library services make her an outstanding choice for this leadership role. We are excited to see her bring her vision and expertise as the Outreach Branch Manager. Congratulations, Kari!

Welcome Amy Foster: Covington Branch Manager

We’re excited to welcome Amy Foster as the new Branch Manager of the Covington Branch! A proud Northern Kentucky native, Amy graduated from Scott High School before earning her B.A. in Geography from Morehead State University and her M.S.L.S. from the University of Kentucky. She brings a wealth of experience from working in various library settings, including a large law firm library in Lexington and the UK College of Law Library. With 14 years at Boone County Public Library, Amy is no stranger to the world of public libraries, and we are excited to see her lead the Covington Branch.

Paul Duryea: Leading the Soon-to-Open Latonia Branch

We’d also like to extend a big congratulations to Paul Duryea, the former Covington Branch Manager, as he steps into his new role as Branch Manager of the soon-to-open Latonia Branch! Paul has been an integral part of our library system since 2006, working at each branch in various capacities. Most recently he led the Covington Branch with dedication and expertise and we know he will bring the same leadership to Latonia.

Be sure to say hi the next time you are in the library. Learn more about what each branch offers at kentonlibrary.org. 

Most people have heard about famous inventions like the light bulb, the cotton gin and the iPhone. But countless other inventions make our daily lives easier. From the traffic light to home security, read about products that have sprung from the minds of Black inventors.

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Claudette Colvin was 15 when she refused to move to the back of the bus and give up her seat to a white person — nine months before Rosa Parks did the very same thing. She was arrested and became one of four plaintiffs in Browder v. Gayle, which ruled that Montgomery's segregated bus system was unconstitutional. Colvin later moved to New York City and worked as a nurse's aide. She retired in 2004. In 2021, her juvenile record was expunged.

Colvin, now 85, lives in Texas. In 2024, she partnered with Phillip Hoose to publish Claudette Colvin: I Want Freedom Now. She authored No Fear Here and I Do Not Fear, which was published in 2022. She has been the subject of many books, which are listed below and can be placed on hold by clicking the title. 

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While Beyoncé is already the most-awarded Grammy artist in history, she extended her record on February 2, 2025, totaling 35 trophies. Beyoncé also became the first Black woman to win the Grammy for Best Country Album for Cowboy Carter. Several books about Beyoncé, as well as her CDs and videos, are available at the library. Click on a title to put the item on hold.

Books about Beyoncé, as well as her music and videos.

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Whether you're attending a job fair at the Kenton County Public Library or another location, these tips will help. 

12 Tips to Get the Most Out of a Job Fair

1. Bring several copies of your resume. You can arrive early to use the library's photocopier. Remember that others probably do the same thing so allow extra time.
2. Dress appropriately. You should wear business casual attire at a minimum, but depending on the organizations at the fair, you might want to dress up.
3. Have a game plan. Time could be limited so review the companies expected at the fair and prioritize the employers you want to visit.
4. Do your homework. Research background information on the organizations you are interested in to ask specific questions.
5. Only take materials or samples from companies you are interested in pursuing. Some employers bring large quantities of print materials or freebies, while others will only have a few. Always ask before taking items.
6. Prepare your "career pitch." Extend your hand, introduce yourself and be ready to discuss your career interests and goals. Be sure to emphasize the skills and experience important to the company. Your pitch should last 30 to 60 seconds.
7. Plan to follow up. Ask for the representative's business card and send a short thank-you note to acknowledge them for speaking with you so they remember you.
8. Take notes on the back of the company's business card you're interested in so you don't confuse the information with the wrong organization. Don't forget to bring a pen.
9. Be considerate. Other people might be waiting to speak with the same employers so keep your questions brief and offer to continue the conversation later (another reason to take a business card).
10. Bring your business card. You can create and print business cards with an online service or at a local store like Staples. Not only will you want to give your card to potential employers but you might also meet someone in the crowd whom you want to network with in the future.
11. Be positive. Employers want to know that you are excited about the position and have a positive attitude.
12. Arrive early. Lines could be long, and you want to ensure enough time to meet with each potential employer.

The Kenton County Public Library offers resume writing, interview courses, and many job skills classes. Visit kentonlibrary.org/careerandjobservices/ for a complete list of classes and job search tips.

Written by Gina Stegner, public relations and social media coordinator for the Kenton County Public Library

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