In the dazzling dairy land of Wisconsin, where cheese curds reign supreme and the green and gold Packers' spirit permeates the air, a team of superkids gather. They are the Reading Raccoons, a band of intelligent, funny, and adventurous children who are as eager for a good book as they are for a sizzling bratwurst on game day. Every Reading Raccoon has a unique power. Super Sam can speed-read faster than a bullet, absorbing every word and detail in a blink of an eye. Imaginative Ingrid can bring any book's characters to life, making them dance and prance around the room. And then there’s Giggly Gus, whose laughter can shake a book's pages and turn the grumpiest of grown-ups into chuckling cheeseheads. In Wisconsin, where the winters are colder than a snowman’s toes and summers are as warm as freshly baked apple pie, these kids bunker down. No matter the weather, they huddle together in the cozy corners of many a library, their noses deep in books, their minds off on crazy adventures. The magic of their reading powers fills the room, swirling like a snow globe of words and laughter. Every Reading Raccoon knows that the greatest adventure lies within a book’s pages, where they can battle dragons, explore distant galaxies or solve mysterious mysteries. In Wisconsin, a place where cows are almost as popular as books, these superkids with their super reading powers are the real MVPs. So next time you see a group of kids with books in Wisconsin, don't be surprised. They might just be the Reading Raccoons, off on their next great adventure.
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
The Madison Public Library has been a beacon of educational and literary enrichment in the City of Madison for more than 145 years. Its nine locations are open six days a week, and over 2 million visits are made to the library annually. This is a testament to the library’s commitment to promoting literacy and community involvement. The Madison Public Library is committed to its mission of promoting education, literacy and community involvement. With nine locations throughout the city, and more than 2 million visits each year, the library is a fixture of the Madison community. Open six days a week, with limited Sunday hours, the library has been providing educational and literary services to the people of Madison for more than 145 years. For more than 145 years, the Madison Public Library has been a cornerstone of educational and literary excellence in the City of Madison. Its nine locations are bustling with activity, hosting over 2 million visits each year. Open six days a week, with limited Sunday hours, the library strongly supports its mission of promoting education, literacy and community involvement. This is a testament to the library’s commitment to enriching the Madison community.
Our commitment to free and equitable access to cultural and educational experiences, and our celebration of ideas, promotes creativity and connects people. At Madison Public Library, visitors can explore and discover a wealth of resources, including books, movies, music, magazines, databases, tools and more. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are available to help patrons find what they need and provide access to materials and services to meet their educational, cultural, and recreational needs. From toddler storytimes to after-school programs to online classes, Madison Public Library offers something for everyone. The library also hosts events for all ages, from special guest speakers and author visits to film screenings and concerts. Whether you are looking to learn something new, find a book to read, or just need a quiet place to work, Madison Public Library is your place to learn, share, and create. Visit us today and see why Madison Public Library is your partner in learning and discovery!
At Madison Public Library, our goal is to provide free and equitable access to educational, cultural, and creative experiences for all ages. We strive to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and foster connections between people and ideas. Whether you’re looking for books, resources, or events to attend, we have something for everyone. Madison Public Library is the perfect place to learn, share, and create. Our welcoming staff and diverse selection of materials are here to help you find what you need. We invite you to come explore the wonderful world of learning and creativity with us.
At the Early Childhood Program, we strive to deliver a quality Christian education to the children in our community. Our program is designed to teach kids about God’s Word and the Good News about Jesus, while providing a nurturing environment that helps them grow spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and physically. We believe that by equipping our students for future service to the Lord at school, home, and beyond, we are helping to shape the next generation of believers.
For over 145 years, the Madison Public Library’s commitment to education, literacy, and community involvement has made a positive impact on the City of Madison. With nine locations throughout the city, the library offers six days of service a week (with limited Sunday hours), and welcomes nearly two million visits each year. The Library Board of Directors, appointed by the Mayor of Madison, works in partnership with the Mayor, Library Director and staff, and the Madison Common Council to ensure the library is able to fulfill its mission.
Madison Public Library has been a cornerstone of the City of Madison for over 145 years. With nine convenient locations throughout the city, and hours that are open six days a week, Madison Public Library is proud to serve the community. Last year, nearly two million visitors took advantage of the resources, programs, and services that MPL offers. From engaging events to digital media, MPL strives to promote education, literacy, and community involvement.
The Madison Public Library has been serving the Madison community for more than 145 years. Over the years, the Library has developed a strong tradition of promoting education, literacy and community involvement. With nine locations throughout the City of Madison, the Library is open six days a week (with limited Sunday hours) and welcomes nearly two million visits each year. The Library is governed by a nine-member Library Board of Directors, appointed by the Mayor of Madison, and works with the Mayor, Library Director Greg Mickells and staff, and the Madison Common Council to ensure that the Library's mission is fulfilled.