Intended to help librarians plan a summer program of activities for children, this planning manual provides deadline schedules, activity suggestions, book lists and other items necessary in starting such a program. The introduction to the manual explains the goals of a library summer program, and notes that the theme offered, "The Greatest Show of All," can teach children about the fun side of circuses as well as their darker history. It also suggests that all children who attend the program should be awarded some type of certificate, because a child who "fails" a summer reading program is likely to dislike reading permanently. Following the introduction is a deadline schedule for planning the summer program, including when to write to contributors, when to place orders for materials, and when to set dates and times for a Children's Conference. The third section deals with the planning process, and includes goals and objectives, an activity matrix, and calendars. The fourth section, on materials and resources, includes lists of books related to the circus, types of music to use, and where to send away for natural history activity kits appropriate for fourth to sixth grade students. The activity section offers simple recipes for animal-shaped cookies, while the final section discusses diversifying goals for summer reading programs. (Stencils for circus characters are included.) (JC)