​Downtown Rapid City is alive with celebrations for America’s 250^th year of being a country. From live music, reenactments, kid’s zones and vendors, one stands the test of time. In Memorial Park those curious can find the tent for Rapid City Public Library. There they have a map of the nation with stickers to place where you’re from, where you want to go, and where you’ve read about. If you’re looking for something to keep the kids occupied on sweltering summer days, ask about the Kids Summer Reading 2026: Unearth a Story. Parents can submit logs of their child’s daily readings for a chance to win prizes like bikes, robots, telescopes and more. No kids? No problem! Talk to the tent coordinators about the library’syearlong reading goal of 250,000 books to commemorate this special occasion. Submit monthly logs of how many books you’ve read for a chance to win fun prizes! It’s the perfect year to browse the historical section and learn how this country was built and develop a deeper connection to your neighbors and those who wish to become them. Public services like the librarycreate an inclusive atmosphere and cultivate knowledge and education. This is what truly makes America wonderful.

BOOK RECCOMENDADTIONS FOR READING ABOUTAMERICA THROUGH THE YEARS:

1.) BURY MY HEART AT WOUNDED KNEE: An Indian History of the American West – Dee Brown

2.) A PEOPLE’S HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES – Howard Zinn 

3.) HALFBREED – Maria Campbell (Sure, it’s Canadian, but still a great read).

4.) ODYSSEUS IN AMERICA: Combat Trauma and the Trials of Homecoming – Jonathan Shay

5.) MAGGIE: A Girl of the Streets – Stephen Crane

6.) ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN – Mark Twain