Berkshire Athenaeum Announces Summer Reading Program for All Ages

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's Public Library, announced this year's Summer Reading Program (SRP) theme for all families, kids, teens, and adults: "Plant a Seed, Read!"

The theme celebrates all things gardening, ecology, and the idea that reading nourishes minds, stated a press release. 

"This year's Summer Reading Program is such a fitting theme for the spirit of our community, which is always growing, sharing, and nourishing one another at the library and beyond our walls,” stated Olivia Bowers, adult services and programming supervisor.

The adult program kicks off with a celebratory event at the Athenaeum on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 4 to 6 pm. Both the teen and children's programs launch on Monday, June 22, 2026. All kick-offs will take place at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 

More information below:

ADULT SUMMER READING PROGRAM

TEEN SUMMER READING PROGRAM

CHILDREN'S SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Kennedy Calls BCC Workforce Graduates Inspiring

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
05:40AM / Friday, June 12, 2026

The programs ranged from emergency medical technician to computers to commercial drivers. See more photos here. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Community College Workforce and Community Education graduates were encouraged to be all they can be on Wednesday.

 

Graduates, families, friends, and staff gathered in Boland Theatre to celebrate around 100 graduates who completed a variety of courses.

 

They included community health worker, emergency medical technician, phlebotomy technician, registered behavior technician, AI fundamentals, Commercial Drivers License Class A and B, CompTIA Tech-plus, para educator, and English for Speakers of Other Languages.

 

College President Ellen Kennedy said it was amazing that this might be her last public speaking event before her tenure comes to an end.

 

She acknowledged the diverse reasons for their studies including career advancement and personal growth, commending their vulnerability and dedication. 

 

"Some of you explored AI, some of you improved your English speaking in really important ways, and the reason that each of you is here is because you decided to put your heart and soul to get vulnerable to do something that might have felt a little bit uncomfortable," she said. "And you did it, and we are so incredibly proud of you, and so happy to be here tonight, celebrating you."

 

Keynote speaker Shirley Edgerton, founder of Rites of Passage and Empowerment (ROPE) encouraged the graduates to reflect on their accomplishments and look forward to the future.