News Release

Summer “Read with a Ranger” books announced at Homestead National Historical Park

Date: June 8, 2026
Contact: Jessica Korgie, 402-223-3514

BEATRICE, Neb. – Picture books, crafts, nature walks and more when you read with a park ranger! “Read with a Ranger” programs are on the third Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. Join the rangers at the Education Center.

The 2026 summer book selections have been made and are as follows:

June 20 – The Cottonwood Tree by Serena Mangus

July 18 – The Hundred-Year Old Barn by Patricia MacLachlan

August 15 – If Were a Park Ranger by Catherine Stier

Wonderful for young children and their caregivers, all ages are welcome to attend these free programs. Listen to a park ranger read a picture book and then participate in a related activity or craft connected to the book's themes. Themes will include National Parks, nature, farm life, homesteading, and much more. All props, books, and craft supplies will be provided.

“It’s exciting to announce the books for this summer. Reading and participating in a craft or activity with a ranger is an impactful way to introduce the youngest of our communities to National Parks including Homestead National Historical Park,” said Superintendent Susan Cook.

“Read with a Ranger” programs last approximately an hour. Please dress appropriately for the weather as activities may happen outside. For more information about book and activity itineraries check out www.nps.gov/home/learn/kidsyouth/read-with-a-ranger.htm.

For more information on available accommodations please contact Accessibility Coordinator, Amber Kirkendall at [phone].

Homestead National Historical Park is a unit of the National Park Service, located four miles west of Beatrice, NE. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Trails are open daily from dawn to dusk, and admission is free! For more information, please call [phone], or visit http://www.nps.gov/home.

Remember, Homestead National Historical Park has an exciting schedule of events planned for 2026. Keep up with the latest information by following us on X (HomesteadNHP) and Facebook (Homestead National Historical Park).

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About the National Park Service. The National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. Learn more at www.nps.gov.