Phoenix's Burton Barr Central Library to Celebrate Summer Solstice with Special Anniversaries and Activities

The Burton Barr Central Library is set to host its annual Summer Solstice celebration, inviting the Phoenix community to welcome the start of summer and the longest day of the year. Set for June 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., the library will feature activities designed to highlight the confluence of natural light and architectural design, marking the precise moment of solstice.

As reported by the City of Phoenix official newsroom, this event continues a tradition dating back to 1995, where residents and guests gather to celebrate the summer solstice within the walls of the library. This year's celebration is particularly special, with the library commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Arizona Room, and 15th anniversary of College Depot., along with the introduction of new services like the Bookmobile.

The event will also include a nod to Phoenix's history, with the distribution of commemorative prints honoring James and Dorothy McClintock for their donation that made the Arizona Room possible. Moreover, the celebration will feature exclusive John Milton prints, a tribute to the historic find in the library's Rare Book Room​. Additionally, the Friends of the Phoenix Public Library will be selling t-shirts, providing an opportunity for attendees to take home a piece of the library's rich culture and history.

For families looking to engage in creative activities, the library's MACH1 space will offer the chance to make solstice sun catchers from 11:00 a.m. during the event. "Using collaged tissue paper, we'll learn all about light and color and create fun sunlight-catching art pieces for you to hang up on your window at home," promotes the hands-on experience, which is open to children of all ages and their families. Music for the celebration will start at 11:30 a.m., followed by the solstice presentation at noon, according to City of Phoenix official newsroom.