Dillon Public Library Celebrates Record-Breaking Summer Reading Program; Finale and Weekly Events Announced

DILLON, Mont. — The Dillon Public Library is wrapping up another successful Summer Reading Program with a community celebration after a record-breaking summer that saw more than 570 participants sign up—the highest enrollment in the program's history.

The previous record of 420 participants was set last year, making this year's program another milestone for the library and its supporters.

Summer Reading Finale Set for July 30

The Summer Reading Finale will take place Thursday, July 30, from 10 a.m. to noon at Depot Park immediately following the community parade.

The parade begins at 10 a.m. in front of Dillon City Hall, located at 125 N. Idaho Street, and will once again be led by the Dillon Police Department.

Library staff are encouraging children who participated in the Summer Reading Program to wear costumes they created during library activities throughout the summer, including dinosaur tails, claws, headbands, or any other creative costume.

Participants are also reminded to turn in their completed reading logs by 5 p.m. on Monday, July 27.

Children who collected Library Bucks throughout the summer should also bring in the envelopes containing their earned money so library staff can count and exchange the smaller bills before announcing prize winners.

The extra time will allow library staff to prepare final participation statistics and determine this year's top readers.

Library officials thanked Pioneer Federal Savings & Loan and Town Pump for their continued financial support through grants that help make the annual Summer Reading Program possible.

Weekly Programs Continue

The Dillon Public Library still has several free activities planned this week for children and teens.

Teen Tuesday – July 21

Teens ages 13-18 are invited to the Pinewood Derby Car Race from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Elks Lodge #1555, located at 27 E. Center Street in Dillon.

Participants are encouraged to bring the derby cars they built earlier this summer. Extra cars will also be available for anyone who missed the building sessions.

Pizza will be provided for attendees.

Free Family Movie – July 22

Families can enjoy a free showing of the award-winning animated film "Flow" at 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Museum's Depot Theatre.

The Golden Globe-winning film follows the story of a courageous cat that joins a capybara, lemur, bird, and dog after a devastating flood forces them to search for dry land while learning to trust one another.

Library officials remind moviegoers that no food, candy, or drinks are allowed inside the theater.

Thursday Theme – July 23

Children are invited back to the Dillon Public Library from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday for "DINO-MITE Dino-Art," another hands-on activity as part of this year's dinosaur-themed Summer Reading Program.

For additional information about any of the library's summer programs or events, contact the Dillon Public Library at 406-683-4544.

With record participation and one final celebration still ahead, the 2026 Summer Reading Program has become the library's most successful summer program to date, bringing hundreds of local children and families together through reading, crafts, movies, and educational activities.