Discovery Camp 2026 is officially underway at Webster Parish Libraries, with families across the parish already participating in reading challenges, science activities, and special events as part of the summer program.
The first day for participants to begin logging reading minutes into Beanstack was May 27, launching the annual camp’s first themed segment, Science Week.
One of the featured events during the opening week will be appearances by Chatty Curl the Science Gurl, also known as Chatty the Mime. She will visit the Minden branch on June 1 at 10 AM and the Heflin branch at 3 PM. Additional performances are scheduled June 2 at the Springhill branch at 10 AM and the Doyline branch at 3 PM.
According to Webster Parish Libraries, Chatty is known for object manipulation and juggling, particularly with her trademark bowler hat. Her performances combine science activities, mime, clowning, juggling, magic, and balloon art designed to encourage curiosity, creativity, and learning among children and families.
The LSU AgCenter Germ Cave also will visit the library system during Science Week, appearing at the Minden branch June 2 at 1 PM and at the Springhill branch June 4 at 1 PM.
The Germ Cave is a portable black-light exhibit designed to teach proper handwashing, safe food handling, and effective cleaning and sanitizing practices. Created by LSU AgCenter agents as part of the organization’s Food Safety Educational Tool Box, the exhibit includes glowing handprints, hanging “germs,” agar plate demonstrations showing bacterial growth, and educational displays about cross-contamination and foodborne illness. During the interactive presentation, participants receive a “high five” from the presenter using glow lotion to demonstrate how bacteria can spread under black light.
Additional programming includes seven Escape Room sessions planned at the Minden branch on June 4 from 10 AM until 4:45 PM.
The dinosaur-themed escape room is designed for children ages 5-11 and challenges participants to work together to solve puzzles and clues before a giant meteor crashes into Earth. The activity encourages teamwork and problem-solving while placing children in a prehistoric-themed adventure to “escape extinction.”
Other activities taking place throughout Discovery Camp include slime-making sessions, bedazzling projects, and various hands-on educational activities offered at multiple branches. Library officials encourage residents to check with their local branch for schedules and additional information.
This year’s Discovery Camp is divided into themed weeks focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In addition to Science Week, participants will take part in Tech Week, Engineering Week, and Math Week throughout June.
June 27 will be the final day for participants to log reading progress into Beanstack. Library officials said a completion celebration is planned for early July, with eligibility based on reading participation and completed logs.
More information about Discovery Camp events and schedules is available at websterpl.org.