The Burlington County Library System, in partnership with The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development, will host Summer Fun for Everyone, a free inclusive community celebration launching the 2026 Summer at the Library on Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Burlington County Library in Westampton.
Designed for children, teens, adults, caregivers and families of all abilities, the event will transform the library into a welcoming community gathering space filled with accessible activities, entertainment, community resources and opportunities to connect.
Libraries become vibrant centers of activity during the summer months as families participate in reading programs, educational experiences and community events. Summer Fun for Everyone reflects BCLS’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that every community member feels welcomed, supported and included.
The event is funded through a partnership with The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development, New Jersey’s federally designated University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities and part of Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. The center works to promote inclusion, equity and full participation for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
“Summer Fun for Everyone is about creating a space where all individuals and families can participate comfortably and fully,” said Library Commission Chair Jon Chebra. “We want every visitor to feel seen, valued and excited to take part in everything libraries have to offer this summer.”
The event will feature a wide range of accessible and sensory-friendly experiences, including:
- A sensory-friendly activity zone with tactile play, soft seating, visual supports and quiet areas
- Inclusive live entertainment, including interactive magic performances by Jake Strong and a hands-on musical instrument “petting zoo” presented by Keeping Music Alive
- Adaptive arts and creativity stations designed for all skill levels and motor abilities
- Movement and play activities including bubbles, parachute games and gross motor activities
- A community resource fair featuring organizations, disability advocates and family support services
- Summer Reading Program registration assistance and giveaways
BCLS has long supported inclusive programming through initiatives such as Sensory Storytime, Special Needs Social Hour events and the addition of sensory-supportive materials and interactive resources within library spaces.
To support this day of inclusive programming, the BCLS Foundation partnered with The Boggs Center on a $13,000 grant funded through New Jersey’s Department of Children and Families, Children’s System of Care, that helped fund performers, sensory equipment, adaptive supplies and accessibility supports. Funding also supported the purchase of materials designed to assist children with sensory processing needs, anxiety, emotional challenges and autism spectrum disorder.
“The BCLS Foundation supports libraries throughout the county by securing funding through grants and partnerships with other foundations, investing in library services, programs and initiatives, and encouraging individual and corporate donations and scholarships,” explained Library Director Ranjna Das. “This partnership with The Boggs Center is another wonderful example of that mission in action, and we’re deeply grateful for their continued support.”
In addition to indoor programming, local organizations and community groups will participate in a resource fair throughout the library’s indoor and outdoor spaces. Community members will have opportunities to learn about educational programs, disability services, advocacy organizations and family resources available throughout Burlington County and the surrounding region.
Accessibility features throughout the event will include ADA-compliant spaces, clear signage with simple language and icons, quiet areas for de-escalation, multilingual supports and staff trained in inclusive practices.
The Burlington County Library System invites residents of all ages and abilities to celebrate the start of summer together and discover how libraries continue to serve as welcoming “third spaces” where everyone belongs.