Catch the reading bug this summer—May 30, 2008
Kids of all ages have been “swarming” to the library this week to “Catch the Reading Bug!” Our Summer Reading Program began on Tuesday, and many excited readers have already signed up and started reading.
Children preschool age through fourth grade are encouraged to form the “reading habit” and read for at least 20 minutes each day. Children who are not yet independent readers may participate by having someone read to them. This is a great way to get them excited about learning to read!
Those who will be entering 5th through 12th grades next fall keep track of their summer reading by recording the titles of the books they read. The number of pages in each book is the number of points that book is worth. Teens who will be in 7th through 12th grade in the fall may also earn points by doing volunteer work at the library. All who earn 1,000 points will receive an invitation to a special party on a Friday night when the library is closed. This year the party will be a rock concert featuring a live band.
Children who are registered for the Summer Reading Program are invited to attend special programs on Tuesday afternoons and feature-length films, all rated G, on Thursday afternoons at the library. Children may pick up a complete schedule of the programs and film titles when they register for Summer Reading.
This year we will also have special activities on Monday evenings for our 5th – 12th grade participants. A flyer listing these extra opportunities is available when they sign up.
The Summer Reading Program at the Hastings Public Library is funded by the Hastings Kiwanis Club as part of their commitment to youth. We thank them for their continuing support which makes it possible for all children to participate in Summer Reading free of charge.
You are never too old to read! The library offers an Adult Summer Reading Program as well. Pick up a “Summer Reading Journal” at the library to record your reading. Any person who is out of high school may sign up for the adult program, and you read any number of books that you choose. You may count books from any library, bookstore or your own collection, and unabridged audio books also count.
Parents can demonstrate the value they place on reading by letting their children see them read. Let the whole family “Catch the Reading Bug!” this summer!
