Children and families will have an opportunity to meet familiar local radio voices while enjoying stories, crafts, and hands-on activities during a special summer reading event at Josephine Community Library next week.
The library will host its “Neighborhood Heroes Story Squad” program on Wednesday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Grants Pass branch located at 200 NW C Street. The event will feature broadcasters from local radio stations KAJO and KLDR, offering young readers a chance to learn about careers in broadcasting while participating in a community-centered literacy program.
Throughout the two-hour event, local radio personalities Alex Bauer and Cassie Callas will take turns leading storytime sessions and engaging with children and their families. Bauer will read from 11 a.m. to noon, followed by Callas from noon to 1 p.m.
The featured book for the event is “A Fox Found a Box” by author Ged Adamson. In addition to reading the story, the broadcasters will share information about their work in local radio and discuss the role broadcasters play in keeping communities informed and connected. Audience members will also have an opportunity to ask questions and interact with the guest readers.
As part of the event, participating children will receive portable radios while supplies last. The giveaway is being made possible through sponsorship support from Robyn Lasky of RE/MAX Integrity.
Library officials say the program is designed to introduce young readers to community members whose work contributes to everyday life in Josephine County while encouraging literacy and curiosity through storytelling and creative activities.
The event is one of several programs being offered through Josephine Community Library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program, themed “Plant a Seed, Read.” The annual initiative encourages reading throughout the summer months while providing educational opportunities for children and families across the county.
Support for this year’s Summer Reading Program is provided by Evergreen Federal Bank, Grants Pass Active Club, Josephine Community Library Foundation, Oregon Pacific Financial Advisor, and the State Library of Oregon.
Library representatives note that the Neighborhood Heroes Story Squad program is free and open to the public. No library card is required to attend.
Josephine Community Library District provides public library services throughout Josephine County through its branches in Grants Pass, Illinois Valley, Williams, and Wolf Creek. Established as a special library district in 2017, the organization offers a range of services that include early childhood literacy programs, public information resources, internet access, and educational support for residents of all ages.
Additional information about the Summer Reading Program and upcoming library activities is available through Josephine Community Library.