The Salina Public Library invites the community to participate in Salina Reads, a citywide series of events designed to strengthen community connections by widening perspectives and deepening understanding through literature, shared experiences, and conversation.

This year’s featured title is “Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law” by Mary Roach. Known for her humor and curiosity, Roach explores the fascinating intersection of wildlife and law enforcement, from managing mischievous animals to addressing human-wildlife conflicts. Through stories of jaywalking moose and break-in–prone bears, she reveals how science often provides better solutions than traditional law enforcement.

Salina Reads Kick-Off Event

The community is invited to celebrate the start of Salina Reads at a lively kick-off event.

• Thursday, April 16

• 5:30–7 p.m.

• Salina Public Library, Campbell Room

Guests will enjoy live music from local band Treehouse, appetizers, and a hands-on animal-themed craft for all ages. Special animal guests from the Lakewood Discovery Center, Rolling Hills Zoo, and Salina Animal Services will also make appearances.

Free copies of this year’s book will be available while supplies last.

Share Your Story

In the spirit of “Fuzz”, community members are encouraged to share their own wildlife encounters. Whether it’s a funny moment, an environmental surprise, or a time nature refused to follow the rules, submissions are welcome.

Stories can be submitted via email ([email protected]) or at the library’s Information Desk.

A Month of Engaging Programs

Salina Reads will feature a variety of programs for all ages, including:

• Operation WildLife: Imprinted for Life! – an educational program featuring live birds and lessons on wildlife rehabilitation

• Jungle Escape Room – an interactive adventure experience

• Snyder: An Elephant’s Story – an historical program exploring a unique chapter of Salina’s past

• Film Screening: “All That Breathes” – a documentary examining human relationships with wildlife

Finale Event: Happy Hour Book Discussion

Salina Reads will conclude with a Happy Hour Book Discussion at Red Fern Booksellers, offering the community a final opportunity to connect and reflect on this year’s shared reading experience.

• Friday, April 24

• 6–7:30 p.m.

Enjoy light appetizers, a cash bar, and engaging conversation as a panel of local experts discusses “Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law,” featuring Jackie Augustine (Audubon Society), Brian Underwood (Lakewood Discovery Center), Elizabeth Tharman (Kansas Wesleyan University), and Lydia Nicholson (The Land Institute).

Building Community Through Reading

Salina Reads continues its mission of bringing the community together through shared reading and meaningful dialogue. By exploring themes of coexistence, curiosity, and respect for the natural world, this year’s program encourages participants to reflect on their relationships with nature and each other.

For a full schedule of events or to register, visit salinapubliclibrary.org/salina-reads.