Summer Reading 2013: Dig Into Reading

   Although Summer Reading has technically started at my library, the programs officially start next week. We have a full week of programming for ages 1-14 (the part time librarian does the tween/teen programming). Our slate of programming this summer includes: storytime (2 identical sessions to accomodate the larger amount of children who attend over the summer), storytelling in action (interactive storytelling and craft), arts and crafts, Teen Space summer programs, board games and chess Tournament. In addition we have several one time programs that include: scavenger hunt, Girl Scout Day, Dig Into Stories with Storyteller Carl Gussin and create clay animals.

  Already Arts and Crafts is full and storytelling in action is nearly full. The programs for the school age children always seem to fill up first. Several programs this summer are new to Summer Reading. I have done storytelling in action for Summer Reading at another library but not this one. I did try it in the winter once at this library but found it was better to do it in the summer because we get a larger audience during this time.
The chess tournament idea is new too. We have had chess classes for about 5 or 6 years. The instructor who has helped us in the past now has a full time job and we cannot find a time that accomodates both of us. We also have a new instructor who has helped us during the school year but he will be away part of the summer, so he didn't think it would be fair to commit when he won't be here the whole time. Both are volunteers, so I was appreciative of any help they were able to give. We are fortunate to get a program from our Central library Program and Services Department for July (storyteller Carl Gussin) and we have another volunteer who is going to do the clay program.

 This year I am also fortunate to have a library assistant on staff to help coordinate and lead the programs with me. In addition, I have four (and maybe more volunteers) to help with craft preparation and assistance to children at the program.

 I look forward to seeing what this summer brings. More details later as the summer reading program begins.