Because learning doesn’t have to end when school does…
What is SummerQuest?
SummerQuest offers kids and teens tons of ways to stay active in mind and body all summer long! York County Libraries host free, fun activities that keep participants learning, reading, and physically active from June to August. Each year, the theme and special events change, but you can be sure to find:
- Musicians and entertainers touring our libraries
- Hands-On STEAM, crafts, and other activities
- Events for Teens including Cupcake Wars Competitions & Story Slams. Programming varies by year.
- Get Outdoors York (GO York!) park exploration
- And so much more!
Early online registration begins before Memorial Day and our kick-off events take place at three different locations on the first Saturday in June. We continue with great activities held at our libraries and throughout York County’s beautiful local and state parks. Everything wraps up mid-August, just in time for the first day of school.
Follow us on social media to find out the exact dates for events, or pick up a SummerQuest newspaper at your local library.
Individual Activities
Anyone can attend any number of individual activities at any library throughout the summer. Activities are coded by age group, and many are open to families of all ages. Sign-up may be required for events with limited space.
Get Outdoors York (GO York!)
What is it?
York County Libraries has partnered with WellSpan Health for more than ten years to support the Get Outdoors (GO) York! programs throughout the summer.
Participants challenge their bodies and minds as they follow clues in a special book to discover carvings hidden throughout York County towns and parks. Some of the clues will lead you down town streets, while others will have you climbing along trails in the woods!
How do I participate?
Upon registration for SummerQuest, you will receive a rubbing sheet to record each of the carvings you discover. Each one counts for 20 minutes toward your 800+ minute goal!
800 Minute Challenge
Every year, York County Libraries offers a challenge to kids and teens: Read 800 minutes or more, and win great prizes along the way!
While spending time reading is the main way to win, any SummerQuest or “GO York!” activity counts as an extra 20 minutes toward your 800 minute goal.
Did Someone Say Prizes?!
We keep our prizes a secret until SummerQuest kicks-off, but… we can tell you that those who log 800 minutes get to celebrate at a York Revolution baseball game!
SummerQuest is Online!
Each summer, participants will register online for the current year’s program and log minutes using Beanstack. (It’s online, but yes—there’s now an app for that!) Beanstack doesn’t just record minutes. It also allows you to discover new books or write reviews for books you’ve read.
When SummerQuest annual programming has begun, links will be provided to register or create an account.
Returning Beanstack Users: Your accounts remain active from year to year. Using your login information, you can update your account and register for the current year’s SummerQuest program. During April/May, you should receive an email regarding registration for the current year’s SummerQuest program.
Having trouble logging in? Contact your library for help!