BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Enjoy a day of free fun for the whole family at the 18th Annual Children's BookFest, the official kick-off for Broward County Library's 2023 Summer Learning Program, held from 11AM to 4PM on Saturday, June 3 at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC), 2650 Sistrunk Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311.

The Children's BookFest, a signature program of Broward County Library, is ideal for families with preschool and elementary school-age children. Held on the last Saturday before Broward County Public schools end, BookFest is the perfect opportunity to learn about new library resources and sign up for this year's "All Together Now" Summer Learning Program. Children's BookFest is free and open to the public, but registration is requested. 

The18th Annual Children's BookFest, a signature program of Broward County Library, is ideal for families with preschool and elementary school-age children. Held on the last Saturday before school ends, BookFest is the perfect opportunity to learn about new library resources for children and families and to explore and register for this year's "All Together Now" Summer Learning Program. 

In addition to Summer Learning Program registration, Children's BookFest offers a book giveaway, prize raffle, entertainers, crafts, face painting, activities, costumed characters, local authors, vendors and a virtual reality demo. The 2023 featured performers include:

• Frank Morrison: Hear this award-winning children's book illustrator and 2023 Summer Learning Program featured artist discuss his creative process and work. 
• Orisirisi African Folklore: Enjoy an exciting performance exploring African life and culture through folktales, legends, myths and music.Participate in a mindful movement session with this Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter.
• Janis McDavid: Participate in a mindful movement session with this Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter.
• KidVision Pre-K's Ms. Penny: Get entertained and educated in this fun program focusing on self-care, health and empathy.
• Marci Poppins: Learn about friendship, unity, diversity and respect in this interactive, bilingual presentation.
• Costumed Characters: Meet Pikachu, SpongeBob SquarePants, Word Girl and Minions.

Children's BookFest is presented by and funded through the Broward Public Library Foundation in partnership with Broward County Parks & Recreation, with additional sponsorship from the Children's Services Council of Broward County and support from South Florida PBS KidVision.

For more information, please email BCLSummer@broward.org or call 954-357-6282.

About Broward County Libraries
Broward County Libraries Division, named 2020 and 2015 Library of the Year by the Florida Library Association, was founded in 1974 and is one of the largest and busiest library systems in Florida. Broward County Libraries Division's 37 locations provide convenient access to a full range of innovative and cost-effective services that satisfy the changing needs of the people of Broward County for information, education and recreation. Visit our website, Broward.org/Library, or follow Libraries on Facebook and Twitter.