With most of the town’s libraries remaining Covid restrictions now lifted, both branches are prepping for a return of many of regular in-person programs.

According to a press release, the Friends of the Dartmouth Libraries’ museum and park pass program will soon be reinstated at the Dartmouth Public Libraries, and passes will be available at both branches.

Passes are currently available for the Buttonwood Park Zoo, New Bedford Whaling Museum, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Dartmouth’s libraries also have passes provided by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation for free entry into state parks.

The annual summer reading challenge is also in full swing.

This year’s challenge is titled “Tails and Tales” and invites children aged 1-12 to participate in a variety of activities this summer that include performers and singers, crafts, and story times.

Children will complete activities from a summer reading challenge list specially designed for pre-readers and readers.  Participants who complete the challenge will earn a prize and a raffle ticket for one of the grand prize drawings.

Children’s Librarian Christie Phillips has also scheduled performers for both virtual and live programs.

She is also presenting weekly Baby Songs on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Story Times on Thursdays at 11 a.m.

Meanwhile, virtual craft programs take place on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. The July 14 gathering will be held at 2:30 p.m.

Craft kits can be picked up at either library up to a week before each program.

Libraries are currently open five days a week, Monday through Friday. The Southworth Library is open from 9 a.m. to 8p.m. on Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays. The North Branch is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and from noon to 8 p.m. on Thursdays.

Curbside service also remains available.