Library Programs

Is your library looking for a fun and engaging activity to tie into this year’s Summer Reading Program? Columbian Park Zoo has you covered!

Offered during the summer months only (June-mid-August), a Library Program specifically ties into the pre-developed summer reading theme each year! Depending on the theme, we read an applicable animal-based story, then present an Animal Artifact and 3 live Animal Ambassadors to further tie into the theme. Educators will bring the animals around for close viewing and participant touching opportunities whenever safe and appropriate. A Q&A session concludes each presentation, allowing audience members to further connect to the amazing world around them and inspire them to learn more- hopefully at their local library! 

2026 Summer Reading Theme: Unearth A Story

UnearthAStory
zoo van

Designing your own custom Summer Reading Theme this year? No problem! Depending on the theme, an alternative program option similar to the Summer Library Program may be available. Contact the Zoo Education Team to learn more.

2026 Fees and Information:

  • Duration: 50-minute visit
  • 3 Animal Ambassadors and an animal artifact 
  • For program quality and animal wellbeing, participation is limited to 30 total persons per presentation (including facility staff and guests)
  • Program Fee: $130 per visit 
  • Travel fees apply: $10 base fee + $40/hr based on round-trip travel time
  • After-Hours fees may also apply

Contact the Education Department to Book:

  • Phone: (765) 807-1555
  • Email: zooeducation@lafayette.in.gov