Solar Express Keeps Dryden Students Reading, Learning and Connected All Summer Long
The Dryden Central School District Solar Express Traveling Library continues to make a lasting impact on students and families across the Dryden community, bringing books directly to neighborhoods throughout the summer months.
Originally launched as a creative way to keep students engaged in reading while school is out of session, the Solar Express has grown into a beloved summer tradition for families throughout the district. Each summer, the traveling library visits parks, neighborhoods and community gathering spaces throughout Dryden, Freeville and surrounding areas, encouraging literacy and connection to school and community.
The program reflects the district’s long-standing commitment to literacy, student well-being and community connection. District leaders have continued to emphasize literacy as a core priority in recent years through the district’s strategic planning efforts, making programs like Solar Express an important extension of learning beyond the traditional school year.
Throughout its history, starting back in 2005, Solar Express has evolved from a simple mobile reading initiative into a broader community outreach effort that encourages a lifelong love of books and learning. Students visiting the traveling library can browse and take home books while interacting with staff members in a fun, welcoming environment. The program also helps ensure equitable access to reading materials for children throughout the district during the summer months.
2026 will be the 20th year for the Solar Express program, and it continues to grow and improve! Thanks to the collaboration with Dryden Food Service Director Megan Munson, families can now enjoy books and lunch at program sites. Attendees 18 and under can receive a free lunch, with additional weekend meals also sent home on Thursdays. This year’s program will run from July 7 to August 13 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will include stops at Montgomery Park, Poets Landing, Hanshaw Village, Conger’s (Tuesdays), Country Acres (Thursdays), and Pleasant View, allowing families convenient access to books and educational resources throughout the community.
See below for the full Solar Express 2026 schedule:
Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 7 - August 13, 2026
Montgomery Park: 11:00 - 11:45am
Poets Landing: 11:50 - 12:20pm
Hanshaw Village: 1:00 - 1:30pm
Conger's (Tuesdays): 2:00 - 2:30pm
Country Acres (Thursdays): 2:00 - 2:30pm
Pleasant View: 2:45 - 3:15pm
The Solar Express runs rain or shine. In cases of extreme weather, check the District Facebook Page for cancellations/updates.
