Every Friday this summer, the Suffolk Public Libraries has offered special events catered to families.

Yesterday, the libraries kicked off two days of events celebrating the summer programs with an “Artsy Fartsy Party” at Morgan Memorial Library.

Beginning on June 24, Family Fridays engaged families in activities ranging from arts and crafts projects to reptile showcases.

“This helps build the community,” said Autumn Zuraiqi, who attended the Morgan Memorial party Friday.

Through the course of the summer, the events rotated among the three library branches. The events were part of the city library’s summer challenge program.

The challenge welcomed participants of all ages, and it encouraged them to keep their minds and bodies active during the summer. The program required participants to log their reading and to complete mini-challenges, such as attending library events, visiting museums, eating healthy and exercising. For each challenge completed, participants won prizes.

The challenge will conclude on Saturday with closing ceremonies and a bike raffle at The Festival of Nations event at the North Suffolk library.

One of the most popular Family Fridays events was the Artsy Fartsy Party. Friday was the last Family Fridays event of the summer at all of the library branches.

About a dozen children and their parents gathered at the Morgan Memorial Library and participated in doodling, coloring and finger painting. Last week, the event attracted more than 40 participants at the North Suffolk Library, according to Frances Jornov, a member of the city library’s youth and family services team.

She stressed she avoids inhibiting the children’s creativity.

“It is an open-ended atmosphere,” she said. “They can use their imagination to create things that they like.”

Children and parents alike love the setting of the art parties.

“It feels like a small family, and the kids are able to build great relationships with the teachers,” Zuraiqi said.

“I like everything here,” said 5-year old Owen Hobson. “I’m always very creative.”

The libraries will continue similar programs during the fall, according to Jornov. They will offer preschool programs on Friday mornings to teach students about art, science and dance. In addition, they will host reading days and other activities for older children.

“This gives kids something to do and to be creative, rather than sitting around all day,” said David Hobson.