What’s on Our Bookshelf this June
Whether you’re celebrating a special holiday, cheering for a young ballerina, learning about friendship and health, solving green riddles, or simply celebrating the bond between parent and child, these books offer something for every family to enjoy together.
The Juneteenth Alphabet
By Andrea Underwood Petifer
Celebrate Juneteenth with this heartfelt introduction to an important holiday. Kids will meet historical figures and learn about the origins and traditions of Juneteenth. Ages 2-6.
Ellie’s Dancing Shoes
By Scott Sollers
Ellie, a ballerina, performs her best with her lucky dancing shoes passed down from her grandmother. But on the day of the audition, her lucky dancing shoes are lost. A charming story about believing in yourself. Ages 3-8.
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The Mouse Who Couldn’t Eat Cheese
By M.B. Mooney
Alex the Owl is excited to make friends with Maya the Mouse, but why does Maya sometimes feel too sick to play? And why doesn’t she eat cheese? A story of friendship and we can support someone who suffers from Crohn’s disease. Ages 3-8.
The Green Kingdom
By Cornelia Funke
Twelve-year-old Caspia discovers a bundle of letters, hidden in an old dresser in her new home. Each letter contains a ‘green’ riddle, with clues leading to a different plant. An enchanting tale of mystery, adventure and friendship. Ages 8-12.
When I Became Your Daddy
By Susannah Shane
Perfect for Father’s Day, this tender picture book celebrates the special bond between a father and his child, told through an otter father and his pup. A heartwarming story about the unconditional love a father feels upon becoming a parent. Ages 0-5.
This collection of books was curated by freelance writer Lori Orlinsky, an award-winning, bestselling children’s book author and industry expert who lives and breathes children’s books. Her upcoming book, Being Middle, is set to release this August.
Lucas County Fatherhood Coalition Celebrates Fatherhood Awareness Month
The Lucas County Fatherhood Coalition is celebrating Fatherhood Awareness Month this month to recognize local fathers and father figures.
The Zepf Center’s Fatherhood Program has had over 1,100 participants in the past five years. Through this, there have been 570 jobs secured as 71.6% of the program’s participants entered unemployed.
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In addition to the impact the Zepf Center’s Fatherhood Program has made, Pathways Inc.’s Brothers United program has supported over 3,100 fathers since 2015. When the efforts of the Zepf Center’s Fatherhood Program and Pathways Inc.’s Brothers United program are combined, 4,200 fathers have been supported.
Through the help and support of these fatherhood programs, families and kids see positive results. For example, by supporting fathers, Pathways Inc.’s Brothers United program has positively impacted over 8,600 children in Lucas County.
Leading up to father’s day, the Lucas County Fatherhood Coalition is hosting FATHERhood Week. The local impact of fathers will be celerbated through community events, resources and celebrations
For more information or to inquire about involvement in FATHERhood Week 2025, contact David Kontur at 419-725-7190 or email [email protected].
June 2025: Free Family Fun
June 1
Together We Move
An all-inclusive celebration of movement. Walk, roll, bike or dance, everyone is invited to join in and get moving! Registration is required.
Glass City Metropark–Market Hall, 1505 Front St., Toledo
June 2
Monday Morning Movies
Watch movies set around the world featuring your favorite characters! The program kicks off with “Encanto.” Popcorn will also be served.
Wood County Public Library-Main Library, 251 N. Main St,, Bowling Green
W.A.T.E.R. Safety with Goldfish Swim School
A fun and interactive water safety program just in time for summer swimming and boating.
West Toledo Branch Library, 1320 Sylvania Ave., Toledo
Try it! Youth Fishing (Ages 17 and Under)
Open to ages 17 and under. Fishing poles and bait are available on a first-come, first-served basis — anglers are welcome to bring their own equipment.
Cannonball Prairie Metropark, 9725 Monclova Rd, Monclova
June 3
Shots for Tots n Teens
Shots 4 Tots is an immunization program for children from birth through 18 years of age administered by professional public health nurses for the Toledo Lucas County Health Department. Walk-ins welcome.
Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland
Library Summer Fun
Beat the heat with cool activities every Tuesday and Thursday through July 29! Join the Main Library for games, puzzles, STEM challenges, and more.
Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
Summer Read Kickoff
Celebrate the start of Summer Read with games and a treat!
Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St., Toledo
Stroll the Street
Enjoy live music at the Edward Ford Memorial Park pavilion while sampling tasty bites from 10 food trucks each week. Kids can join the fun with face painting and crafts, and you can browse handmade creations from local artists and crafters. Tuesdays through Aug. 12.
Ford Memorial Park, 146 Dixie Hwy., Rossford
June 4
Summer Read Kick Off
Celebrate the start of the Summer Reading Program with fun activities, Summer Read sign-up and special guest reading buddies: certified therapy dogs!
Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
Movie and a Craft – The Little Mermaid (live action, 113 min.), PG
A young mermaid makes a deal with a sea witch to trade her beautiful voice for human legs to discover the world above water and impress a prince.
Mott Branch Library, 1085 Dorr St., Toledo
June 5
Family Movie & Game Night
The City of Toledo’s Community Movie Nights offer a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy free outdoor movies in various city parks throughout the summer. This week’s movie is “Shang- Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” (2021).
Schneider Park, 2698 Schneider Rd., Toledo
June 6
Free First Fridays & Make and Take Craft Day
Enjoy free museum admission every First Friday of the month, featuring a special make-and-take craft activity.
Wood County Museum, 13660 County Home Rd., Bowling Green
Northwood Palooza in the Park & Fireworks
Enjoy live music, food trucks, and end the night with spectacular fireworks!
Central Park, Oram Rd., Northwood
June 7
Early Stages (ages 3-4) Drop In Class
Explore a monthly theme with song, movement and puppetry.
Children’s Theatre Workshop, 2417 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo
The 52nd Old West End Festival
Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages. Children’s Activities are located near the Marketplace/Art Fair and at Glenwood Park (Robinwood & Collins St.), Don’t miss the King Wamba Carnival Parade Saturday morning!
Old West End, Monroe/Collingwood/Detroit/Central, Toledo
34th Annual Point Place Shoreland Parade
Community, food trucks, and a parade to herald the summer season.
Point Place, Summit St., Toledo
June 9
Monday Morning Movies
Free movie and popcorn each Monday. Today’s feature is “Enchanted.”
Wood County Public Library-Main Library, 251 N. Main St,, Bowling Green
Tinkering Takeover
Get excited about STEAM with hands-on activities exploring circuits, coding, fabrication and more.
Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland
June 10
Lilo & Stitch Party
Have an out-of-this-world time at this celebration of the intergalactic friendship of Lilo and Stitch. Games, crafts, and fun galore.
Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
June 11
Sensory Play Day (ages 12 and under)
All the sensory sensations for a messy and fulfilling time. All abilities are welcome. Registration is required.
The Ability Center, 5605 Monroe St., Sylvania
Tinkering Takeover
Get excited about STEAM with hands-on activities exploring circuits, coding, fabrication and more.
Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
June 12
Family Movie Night – What to do with Dad
Start the Father’s Day celebration early with a movie in the park. Tonight’s feature is “Sonic the Hedgehog 3.”
Glenwood Park, 2856 Robinwood Ave., Toledo
June 13
Elinor Wonders Why WGTE Movie Night
Join WGTE to meet Elinor, watch an episode of “Elinor Wonders Why” on the big screen, participate in fun activities, enjoy delicious treats and more.
WGTE Public Media, 1270 S. Detroit Ave., Toledo
June 14
Play Ball Weekend
Baseball & softball clinic for kids ages 4–12 including 5 skill stations to learn the fundamentals. All participants receive a free Play Ball bat & ball set. Preregistration is required. Two sessions.
Fifth Third Field, 406 Washington St., Toledo
DPI’s Family Movie Night
An evening of games, snacks and watching “The Incredibles” on the big screen.
Woodlands Park, 429 E. Boundary St., Perrysburg
June 15
Father’s Day Foam Party
Kids can make a special gift for Dad, enjoy outdoor games and party in the parking lot foam playground.
Aviva Glendale, 5020 Ryan Rd., Toledo
June 16
Monday Morning Movies
Free movie and popcorn each Monday. Today’s feature is Brave.
Wood County Public Library-Main Library, 251 N. Main St,, Bowling Green
Tricks in Technicolor with The Professor Show
Laughter and wonder take center stage as The Professor Show celebrates technicolor through a captivating blend of comedy, juggling and magic.
- Holland Branch Library, 1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland
- Locke Branch Library, 703 Miami St., Toledo
- King Road Branch Library, 3900 King Rd., Toledo
American Girl Tea Party
Enjoy stories of beloved American Girl characters, share tea and snacks with your doll, and create fun crafts together.
Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg
Stuffed Animal Spa & Sleepover
Pamper your stuffed animals and dolls with ribbons, brushes, and bows! Join the Main Library for a fun spa session. Leave your toys for an optional sleepover to explore the Children’s Library at night. Limit 2 toys per person.
Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
June 17
Shots for Tots n Teens
Shots 4 Tots is an immunization program for children from birth through 18 years of age administered by professional public health nurses for the Toledo Lucas County Health Department.
Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Rd., Toledo
Movie and a Craft: Moana (113 min), PG
Create your own sensory “beach-in-a-bottle” while watching “Moana.” While supplies last.
South Branch Library, 1736 Broadway St., Toledo
June 18
June Kids Club
This month, kids will learn the basics of engineering as they build floating cities and discover how things work — creativity and critical thinking encouraged! Pre-register and receive a STEM-themed Builder Kit to keep the learning going at home.
Franklin Park Mall, 5001 Monroe St., Toledo
June 19
Juneteenth Freedom Through Art: Emancipation to Expression
Enjoy a range of activities including live performances, family-friendly art making, guided tours, wellness sessions and more.
Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo
Family Movie & Karaoke Night
Sing your heart out at community karaoke and enjoy a free outdoor screening of The Lion King.
Scott Park, 3900 Hill Ave., Toledo
June 21
Art Loop: Middle Grounds
Enjoy live music, hands-on craft stations, sidewalk chalking, aerial performances, pop-up art installations, a mini artist market and a Studio Loop.
Maumee Bay Brewing Co., 27 Broadway St., Toledo
June 22
Monday Morning Movies
Kids can enjoy a viewing of “Ratatouille.”
Wood County Public Library-Main Library, 251 N. Main St., Bowling Green
Art Swap
Work together in small groups to make a collaborative art piece! Art pieces will be hung up on display in the library.
Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon
June 24
Music with Makey Makey
Turn any conductive object into a keyboard key with the Makey Makey invention kit!
Reynolds Corners Branch Library, 4833 Dorr St., Toledo
Mommy Meet Ups
Queens Village Toledo offers regular Mommy Meet Ups designed for new and expecting Black mothers. These sessions provide a supportive space to connect, share experiences, and receive valuable parenting information. Registration is required.
ProMedica Ebeid Center, 1806 Madison Ave., Toledo
June 25
Fun With Chalk
Chalk art, chalk games and more. Chalk provided. Just bring your imagination!
Main Library, 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
June 27
Italian Cup | Youth Football Camp
A free youth football camp presented by the Italian Bowl. Registration is required.
Start High School, 2010 Tremainsville Rd., Toledo
RELATED: Local Youth Invited to Shine at Italian Bowl XLIV
June 28
Springfield Township’s Annual Freedom Celebration
A family-friendly celebration with a 5k, entertainment and fireworks.
Homecoming Park, 7807 Angola Rd., Holland
June 30
Monday Morning Movies
Kids can enjoy a viewing of “Tarzan.”
Wood County Public Library-Main Library, 251 N. Main St., Bowling Green
STEM Challenge: Code-A-Pillar Obstacle Course
Learn how coding works by guiding your Code-A-Pillar through an obstacle course!
Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon
Library Programs
Science Heroes: Adventure of the Missing Color
Through hands-on experiments and fun, interactive stories, kids will get excited about the science that’s all around us as we celebrate the scientists who color our world with art!
June 2
- Locke Branch Library: 703 Miami St., Toledo
- Sylvania Branch Library: 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania
- Oregon Branch Library: 3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon
June 4
- Point Place Branch Library: 2727 117th St., Toledo
- Lagrange Branch Library: 3422 Lagrange St., Toledo
- Waterville Branch Library: 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville
Toledo Mud Hens and Walleye 2025 Summer Series
The Toledo Mud Hens and Walleye are teaming up with Toledo Lucas County Public Libraries, Meijer and LMHA to host free hockey and baseball camps. Registration is required.
June 4
- Washington Branch Library: 5560 Harvest Lane, Toledo
June 11
- Point Place Branch Library: 2727 117th St., Toledo
June 18
- Oregon Branch Library: 3340 Dustin Rd., Oregon
June 25
- Sanger Branch Library: 3030 W. Central Ave., Toledo
Coral Reef Creations
Frequently called “rainforests of the sea,” coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world! Learn more about this habitat and create your own coral reef art project.
June 9
- Washington Branch Library: 5560 Harvest Lane, Toledo
June 17
- Sylvania Branch Library: 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania
June 20
- Maumee Branch Library: 501 River Rd., Maumee
June 26
- Birmingham Branch Library: 203 Paine Ave., Toledo
Meet the Dinosaurs! with Dinosaur Dimensions
An amazing collection of realistic puppets present an experience like no other. From cute baby Triceratops to a life size Raptor, or even a Pteranodon & T-Rex – it’s a dino-experience for all ages!
June 11
- Maumee Branch Library: 501 River Rd., Maumee
- Mott Branch Library: 1085 Dorr St., Toledo
- Kent Branch Library: 3101 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo
June 12
- Toledo Heights Branch Library: 423 Shasta Dr., Toledo
- Birmingham Branch Library: 203 Paine Ave., Toledo
- Sanger Branch Library: 3030 W. Central Ave., Toledo
Super Science: A Journey Into Space with Reed Steele
Go on a space adventure with a superhero theme. Reed will defy gravity by floating off a chair (Okay, it’s only mathematics) and move things with his mind (Okay, it’s only physics). Reed Steele is a former NASA Education Specialist.
June 12
- Heatherdowns Branch Library: 3265 Glanzman Rd., Toledo
June 18
- Main Library: 325 N. Michigan St., Toledo
June 23
- Washington Branch Library: 5560 Harvest Lane, Toledo
- King Road Branch Library: 3900 King Rd., Toledo
June 30
703 Miami St., Toledo
Roll a Masterpiece
Explore the use of patterns in art. Create your own artistic list of patterns and techniques then let chance determine which artistic elements to include in your final masterpiece.
June 16
- Washington Branch Library: 5560 Harvest Lane, Toledo
June 25
- Point Place Branch Library: 2727 117th St., Toledo
June 26
- Sylvania Branch Library: 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania
Ohio Mammals with Metroparks Toledo
Discover the variety of mammals that live in Northwest Ohio today and what lived here long ago by examining furs and skulls of Northwest Ohio’s most common warm-blooded animals.
June 17
- Reynolds Corners Branch Library: 4833 Dorr St., Toledo
- Maumee Branch Library: 501 River Rd., Maumee
June 18
- Mott Branch Library: 1085 Dorr St., Toledo
June 23
- Toledo Heights Branch Library: 423 Shasta Dr., Toledo
- Sylvania Branch Library: 6749 Monroe St., Sylvania
Tunnel Book Storytelling with Molly Miller
Tunnel books are 3D art pieces that tell a story. Explore the storytelling and art process through illusion, depth perception and even a bit of engineering.
June 18
- Kent Branch Library: 3101 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo
- Waterville Branch Library: 800 Michigan Ave., Waterville
June 20
- Lagrange Branch Library: 3422 Lagrange St., Toledo
June 21
- Heatherdowns Branch Library: 3265 Glanzman Rd., Toledo
June 23
- Holland Branch Library: 1032 S. McCord Rd., Holland
June 26
- South Branch Library: 1736 Broadway St., Toledo
Finding a Village: The Mothers’ Center of Greater Toledo Builds Community for Caregivers
In 1984, a grassroots movement to support mothers swept across the country. In its wake, the Mothers’ Center of Greater Toledo (MCGT) was born — one of many local chapters founded under the National Association of Mothers’ Centers. Though the national organization has since dissolved, MCGT remains a vibrant, independent nonprofit that’s been going strong for over a decade.
Founded to combat the isolation often felt by parents and caregivers of young children, MCGT now serves as a lifeline for families throughout the Toledo area. “
We were created in response to the challenges caregivers face — from the immediate confusion of raising kids to the deeper struggles of parenting in a society that doesn’t always offer support,” says longtime member Emily.
At the heart of MCGT is a mission to honor the vital role of caregiving while creating a space where parents can connect, grow, and thrive. “Our principles are rooted in mothering, advocacy, information, structure and environment,” Emily explains. “We want to help families find community and confidence in their parenting journey.”
Programs that empower
Whether you’re a brand-new parent or a seasoned caregiver juggling school schedules and after-work dinners, MCGT offers support tailored to every phase of motherhood. Regular Thursday morning meetings are the backbone of the center’s programming, often featuring expert speakers, peer-led roundtable discussions, and their popular “Playdates with a Purpose.”
Other offerings include monthly Moms Only Nights, social events and a private Facebook group for sharing advice, resources and encouragement. During the summer months, the group organizes a weekly Playground Series, held at parks throughout the Greater Toledo area — open to all caregivers, no membership required.
“Our programs are designed to be flexible and meet moms where they are,” said Jenny, another longtime member. “We know not everyone can attend weekday events, so we also host weekend gatherings and evening socials for working moms.”
One of the group’s standout events is their annual “Mom Prom” — a fun, judgment-free evening where moms dress up (or don’t), hit the dance floor, and celebrate themselves. “It’s a joyful night that helps us reconnect with who we are outside of parenting,” Jenny adds.
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Building a culture of care
MCGT isn’t just about social connection — it’s about making a difference. Through hands-on outreach programs, members engage in acts of service that benefit the broader Toledo community. Children are often involved, learning the value of compassion and community early on.
Mental health is also a core focus. While the center doesn’t offer clinical services, topics like burnout, postpartum depression and emotional labor are regularly addressed. “Everything we do is rooted in connection,” said Jenny. “Because motherhood is easier when you don’t have to go it alone.”
The impact of MCGT is deeply felt by its members. “I’ve made so many friends through this group,” said member Jessica. “It’s helped me become a more confident parent.” Another member, Emily S., puts it this way: “Feeling like you’re doing motherhood alone gets lonely. This community has made my personal journey all the richer.”
A place to belong
For those curious to learn more, MCGT is hosting its Annual Open House on September 6 at their new location, Sylvania UCC. From 10–11:30 a.m., families are invited to enjoy snacks, carnival games and a chance to explore what the Mothers’ Center has to offer.
“It’s family-friendly, free and a great way to see if this is the right community for you,” said Jessica. Membership is $40 per year and includes access to private events, member-hosted playdates, and Thursday meetings during the school year.
“We’re especially excited about this year’s event because of our new location,” says Caroline. “It’s given us space to grow and connect in a consistent, welcoming environment.”
Looking ahead
As MCGT looks to the future, the goal is simple: to keep showing up for moms. “We hope to expand our offerings, improve communication tools, and create more ways for moms to connect and recharge,” Jenny shared. “Ultimately, we want moms to come here not just for their kids — but for themselves.”
Their message to mothers who may be struggling quietly: You’re not alone.
“There’s no shame in needing support,” Jenny said. “Whether you’re laughing, crying, or somewhere in between — there’s space for you here. Come as you are. We’re already saving you a seat.”
For more information or to inquire about membership, email [email protected]. Follow the group on Facebook for updates on events, meetups and resources.