Summer got off to a magical start at the Hope Library on July 6, with a performance by magician Andrew Dalziel.

But there’s more in store for this summer’s entertainment, with a focus on the great outdoors. Next up is the Urban Safari Rescue Society, on Friday, July 21 at 2 p.m. They will be bringing a menagerie of different wild animals who creep, crawl, leap and fly.

Kids of all ages are invited to the show, to meet the animals and to learn how to care for and protect animals in the wild.

Then on Wednesday, July 26, at 10 a.m., it’s time to take a “Walk on the Wild Side.” The library is teaming up with the Hope Mountain Centre for Outdoor learning, to provide a nature hike and outdoor picnic. This event has required registration and is intended for children ages six to 10.

That hike runs until noon, but a longer hike is being planned the same day, for kids ages 10 and up. That will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will focus on outdoor survival skills.

For both of these hiking events, it’s advised to call soon and book your spot.

Then on Friday, Aug. 11 at 2 p.m., kids can go up, up and away with a bit of Mad Science. They will learn about the power of air through hot air balloons, vortex generators and even a hovercraft.

Finally on Tuesday, Aug. 22 at 2 p.m., ventriloquist Kellie Haines is at the Hope Library with her puppet friends, Magrau the bird and Kamilla the frog. They’ll bring stories, songs and dancing to life, with lots of laughter and audience participation.

There is also still time to join the Summer Reading Club, which gives kids a chance to earn prizes and recognition for their reading efforts. There are Summer Reading Clubs designed for all ages, even adults.

For more information about these and any other library events, visit www.fvrl.bc.ca.