Tuesday, May 31, 2011

We're Getting Ready for Summer Reading!

Thermometers in Richmond read 98 degrees today, and that means it's officially the season for staying cool with a good book. Our yearly Summer Reading program begins on June 18th, and we've been preparing for this summer's fun since last fall. There are going to be exciting events for families and awesome prizes for people of all ages. All you have to do is stop by your closest library branch to sign up.  


There are lots of great events for kids and families scheduled throughout the summer. "Snake Guy" Barry Fox will be at RPL locations from June 18th - 24th and will bring a few reptilian friends. Kids will learn about reptiles and amphibians and the roles they play in the environment. Storyteller Susan Clark will join us in July with Tales from Around the World. Animals Unlimited will also be here to introduce us to LIVE creatures of all sizes. Also look for fun musical and storytelling programs as well as a Trickster Tales puppet show.

There will be a Teen Money Camp at the Main Library in July. We've partnered with Virginia Credit Union to offer these FREE workshops focused on helping teens learn to make the most of their money. The camp will take place from 1:00 to 2:00 pm on July 11th through July 15th and will include hands-on activities, computer research time, and the opportunity to interact with other students.

Come in on or after June 18th to sign up for Summer Reading. Why sign up? To win fabulous prizes, of course! Kids who read 10 books (or younger "Read-to-Me" children who read 30 books with an adult) will be entered to win a Dell laptop computer. Teens who read at least 5 books could win an iPad2. Adults who read at least 5 books will be eligible to win a $100 VISA gift card. All you have to do is sign up and fill out your reading log at your library when you finish reading books.

To make things a little interesting, we're throwing an ice cream party for the local elementary school with the most students to finish the Summer Reading Program. Also, the top elementary school age student from each library branch will win a special reading medal. There are so many perks for kids who read in Richmond this summer!

The Summer Reading Grand Finale is always a blast. After a long hot summer of books and fun, come to the Main Library on August 13th for a day of creative activities, storytelling, food, and FUN! Disney Radio will provide entertainment, and Summer Reading participants from all over the city will be recognized. Prize winners will be selected and announced during the Grand Finale, and that helps make the day even more exciting!

A huge thanks goes out to the RPL Summer Reading sponsors, the Friends of the Richmond Public Library and Verizon, who help make the program possible.

There are endless reasons to join in on the fun at your library this summer.  Stop by your library branch to learn more and to get involved in the program. Happy Summer Reading!

No comments: