Why Unearth a Story^tm?

We selected dinosaurs, paleontology, and archaeology as the 2026 theme after broad input from member libraries across the country and through the careful work of the CSLP Theme and Slogan Committee. These topics were consistently cited as high-interest areas for children and families, offering rich opportunities to spark curiosity, imagination, and learning across all age groups.

The slogan, Unearth a Story,^tm was chosen to align with this theme in a way that invites layered interpretation. Whether readers are digging into a good book, uncovering hidden histories, or exploring the past, the slogan underscores the joy of discovery that reading brings. It also emphasizes that every person and every community has stories waiting to be found and shared—through books, programs, and local knowledge.

Why Public Libraries Should Choose Unearth a Story^tm

This theme offers libraries a powerful, flexible foundation for summer programming:

• High appeal to a broad audience, especially children, families, and educators.
• STEAM and humanities connections—from science-based fossil digs to creative storytelling and historical exploration.
• Cross-promotional opportunities with local museums, parks, and historical societies.
• Built-in excitement for visual merchandising, reading incentives, community events, and partnerships.
• Support of our national non-profit. Our focus is on summer reading. Your funds aren’t going to support a for-profit or a state-specific organization.

Join us in 2026 for an educational and fun-filled summer with the dinosaurs!  CSLP_2026_Unearth_A_Story_Sneak_Peek at the artwork.