Lavallette

Dogs, Penguins, Alpacas (‘Oh My!’) Will Star in Lavallette Library’s Summer Animal Series

by
Daniel Nee
June 11, 2025

A penguin is accompanied by staff from Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach. (Photo: Jenkinson’s Aquarium)

From tips on selecting the perfect pet to interacting with some of the world’s most interesting animals, the Upper Shores branch of the Ocean County Library in Lavallette will feature a number of animal-themed programs all summer long.

The library has announced its “Animals at the Library” programs, where furry, winged, cuddly, scaly and slithery characters will appear to “entertain and educate” during the busy summer season. The programs are all presented for free, include a host of presentations and appearances:

Paws for Reading: 12 noon to 1 p.m., every Thursday, July 3 through August 28. Join us to practice your reading skills in the company of gentle therapy dogs. Recommended for youngsters age 3 to 12. Register here.
Out of Sight Alpacas: 1 p.m., Friday, July 18. Take a photo with Waretown’s ‘Out of Sight Alpacas.’ Learn how fibers from their coats become soft, beautiful yarn for clothes and crafts. Open to all ages. Please register here.
Unique Creatures: 12 noon, Monday, July 21. Get a close look at rare and unusual creatures from all over the world in the program for youngsters age 5 to 12. Please register here.
The Seeing Eye Dog Program: – 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 29. Meet actual guide dogs and their trainers. Discover the story behind the organization that pioneered and innovates guide dog companionship and services for people without sight. Open to all ages. Please register here.
Are You Ready for a Small Animal Pet? 2 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 6. Ocean County 4H Association members will discuss small animals suitable to be pets and species that would fit your family. For youngsters age 5 and up with a caregiver. Please register here.
Penguin Pointers: 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 21. Join the folks from Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach, learn all about these curious and essential birds and meet one up close. Open to all ages. Please register here.
Furs, Feathers and Scales: 10:30 a.m., Friday, Aug. 22. This introduction to animal groups will explain reasons for their various skin coverings and the purposes they serve. Open to all ages. Please register here.