By JEN BOUTIN 

Contributing writer 

On Monday, June 12, the library will host its annual Summer Reading Kick-Off Party from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to stop by to register and pick up a schedule of activities and reading log, enjoy a cool treat, and play in the inflatable bouncy house and obstacle course.

Registration for Summer Reading will continue throughout the summer, and reading logs can be redeemed for prizes. This year’s grand prize for kids and tweens is a new bicycle and helmet provided by Webster Orthodontics. Other grand prizes include a 3-D printing pen (for teens), a Kindle Fire (for adults), and a new bicycle and helmet (for the Outreach Program), provided by the Friends of the Library.

Special Summer Reading events and performances include Inter-County Reptiles and Amphibians, Animal Tales, The Mark Wood Fun Show, and Ronald McDonald. The Newport Aquarium will also bring African Penguins to the Library in June. In addition to these special ticketed events, children will be able to take part in the Summer Science Club and the Kid’s Book Club.

Separate offerings for teens and tweens include STEM Challenges, Science Labs, Book Clubs, a Movie Night, and a variety of crafts. Students in grades 6-12 can also learn how to design a website at the weekly summer coding class.

Not to be left out, adults have two book clubs to choose from. They can also learn how to make cheese and learn canning basics at the monthly “How-To” programs. Two website design computer classes will be offered, as well as a class on how to stay safe online. All library-sponsored programs will count toward earning fun weekly prizes and the grand prizes.   

In addition to the in-house programs, the Bookmobile will visit multiple locations throughout the community this summer in an effort to reach those who might not have the opportunity to come to the Library. Each week the Library will offer fun activities and prizes, as well as provide books for the children to borrow. Those children participating in the Summer Outreach program will be eligible to win the outreach grand prize. This summer’s outreach locations are: Ephraim McDowell “Kid’s Camp,” Bunny Davis Day Camp, Salvation Army Day Camp, Long Run Apartments, Hogsett Elementary School, Forkland Community Center, Perryville Community Center, and Junction City Elementary School.

More information about the summer reading program is available on the Library’s website and in the schedule of activities, which can be picked up in the Library.