Soccer Summer

This summer, Kansas City welcomes the world — and we're ready, too!

In the summer of 2026, the world will arrive in Kansas City. Soccer fans from many countries will come through the region for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, filling stadiums and public spaces with energy and excitement. Johnson County Library is welcoming fans, neighbors and visitors with comfortable spaces where you can recharge and explore.

How We're Preparing

Johnson County Library has been planning to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime event by finding more opportunities to enrich people’s lives through access to ideas, information, experiences and materials. We’re ready to welcome you this summer, no matter if you're a regular patron or brand new to the area.

What We're Adding

  • Every location will have a confidential handheld translation device to enable us to connect with more Library users.
  • Secure phone charging lockers at many branches will let you recharge your devices while you recharge your mind.
  • Our Summer Reading program for this year is centered on soccer and celebrating the beautiful game together.

What We're Enhancing

  • Library-wide multilingual initiatives focus on making all feel welcome in our branches.
  • We're upgrading our networks to help you browse the internet faster than ever before.
  • New digital displays and updated audio/video equipment being installed in many branches keep you informed and up-to-date.

Resources and More from Regional Partners

We're not the only ones who are ready to welcome the world: Johnson County Government and other regional leaders have been working together to make this summer one to remember! Johnson County United » is Johnson County's one-stop shop for all things soccer this summer, highlighting countywide efforts and resources for residents and visitors. Stay informed and keep your celebrations going with these resources below!

Read Around The World (Cup) - Kids!

As excitement builds for the World Cup, enjoy these children's books that take place in or are written by authors from qualifying countries!

Read Around The World (Cup)

As excitement builds for the World Cup, enjoy these novels that take place in/are written by authors from each qualifying World Cup country!

Fútbol America: Books for Kids

A selection of football (soccer) fiction for younger readers ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Women's World Cup

Women all over the world have fought for their right to play this beautiful game. These are just some of their stories.

Celebrate Soccer All Summer Long!

Our Summer Reading theme this year is "Read, Score, Roar!", featuring fan-favorite dinosaurs playing soccer. Our Book Group picks for all ages feature titles where soccer is a major theme. Library branches will be hosting free watch parties for select games. From our smallest scorers to grown-up goalkeepers, there's something for everyone this summer at Johnson County Library!

Check Out the Match!

Several branches will be showing FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches for all to enjoy! Check out our full event schedule and join in the fun!

Check Out the Match!

Several branches will be showing FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches for all to enjoy! Check out our full event schedule and join in the fun!

Events for Kids

HappyFeet KC Soccer Storytime: Weekly in June

Children will listen to adventure stories and act out the plot using their own soccer ball. Come ready to run, listen and play!

Baby FIFA World Cup 2026™, June and July

Kick off the summer as our littlest athletes crawl, toddle and kick soft balls to build movement and coordination! For ages 0-24 months.

June: Soccer Snub

Quincy has worked hard to join the A-level soccer team his friend Will plays on, but can their friendship withstand competition?

June: Maritza: Lead with Your Heart

7th grader Maritza learns to lead on and off the soccer field as she organizes support for families detained by immigration officials.

Build Cultural Connections

Broaden your horizons with these programs and online resources focused on global cultures and communities. Learn a new language, find your new favorite groove and create global connections from our shared love of soccer.

CultureGrams

Concise overviews of U.S. states, Canadian provinces, countries and regions of the world.

Mango Languages

Self-paced conversational language-learning for more than 70 different languages including ASL and specialty culture courses.

JoCoHistory: There’s No Place Like (an All-Electric) Home!

At the heart of the JoCoMuseum sits something extraordinary: a real 1954 suburban ranch house, fully furnished and frozen in time.
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