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Dubuque County Reads
KIDS

Dubuque County Reads for Kids makes reading fun and interactive! Children and families can explore this year’s featured book through hands-on activities, storytimes, and creative projects. Our goal is to nurture a love of reading while building connections across the community—because big ideas start with little readers.

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All events are free and open to the public!

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Attend a story time event at a participating library to receive a Free Copy of Berry Song by Michaela Goade.*

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Public Libraries
  • Carnegie-Stout Public Library

  • Dubuque County Library District

  • James Kennedy Public Library

  • Cascade Public Library

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*While supplies last. 

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About the DCR Kids book

​Berry Song

Caldecott Medalist Michaela Goade's first self-authored picture book is a gorgeous celebration of the land she knows well and the powerful wisdom of elders.

On an island at the edge of a wide, wild sea, a girl and her grandmother gather gifts from the earth. Salmon from the stream, herring eggs from the ocean, and in the forest, a world of berries.

Through the seasons, they sing to the land as the land sings to them. Brimming with joy and gratitude, in every step of their journey, they forge a deeper kinship with both the earth and the generations that came before, joining in the song that connects us all. Michaela Goade's luminous rendering of water and forest, berries and jams glows with her love of the land and offers an invitation to readers to deepen their own relationship with the earth.

Youth Programming

March 2026 | Public Libraries
Families and young readers can enjoy storytimes and other programs inspired by Berry Song by Michaela Goade at four public library locations.

 

These interactive programs celebrate nature, culture, and the joy of reading together.

Library Storytime Session

​Dubuque County Reads: StoryWalk®

MARCH | DCLD Locations

Take reading outdoors with our StoryWalk® experience! Pages from this year’s featured book Berry Song will be displayed along a scenic walking path, creating an interactive adventure for readers of all ages.

Enjoy fresh air, family time, and a great story—one step at a time. Perfect for kids, parents, and anyone who loves combining literacy with movement.

berrysongcover.jpeg

Science & Seed Expo at the River Museum

March 6, 2026 | River Musuem
 

Join us for a hands-on, drop-in open house designed for all ages! Explore science expo-style tables and booths featuring interactive activities on seeds, roots, and plant life. Highlights include:

  • Seed Art Project – Create your own nature-inspired masterpiece

  • Roots Exploration – Discover how plants grow and thrive

  • Seed Swap & Giveaway – Take home seeds to start your own garden

This intergenerational program offers both facilitated and self-guided experiences, with teens assisting on weekdays. Stop by anytime to learn, create, and connect with nature!

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Presented by Erin and Cody in partnership with the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

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Event starts at 5 PM. Free and open to the public.

Hands Holding Pinecones
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