It’s that time again – time to gear up for the Artesia Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Program.
This year, the program designed with children, teens and adults in mind will run June 1 through July 29 and will be emblazoned with a theme of sports, games and health.
Last year, a total of 500 people signed up for the program, and the library is working to make this year even more popular.
“We have over 100 programs planned during the two months, and we hope everyone will stop by and check us out,” said Erin Loveland, teen services librarian. “It’s a great place that is free and open to the public.”
The public is invited to sign up at the library anytime throughout the summer. Each participant will be able to earn prizes and, depending on how many books are read or listened to, participants will also be eligible for one of the grand prizes, which include an Amazon Echo, FitBits for adults, a $250 Visa gift card for teens, and building blocks and a LittleBits Gizmo Circuit kit for children.
“We are hoping that by providing these enticing programs, the library will be on everyone’s radar this summer, regardless of their age or reading level,” said Loveland.
Studies have shown that students who do not read during the summer can experience impedance on their learning and return to school in the fall less ready for the next year than when they began their summer break.
“By offering fun, engaging events and encouraging reading and overall learning this summer, we hope to prevent this setback,” said Loveland. “The public library is a fantastic place to come and learn new things, find a favorite book, or just hang out.”
For a full list of events and information about the library’s Summer Reading Program, visit www.artesianm.gov/library or find the Artesia Public Library on Facebook. Upcoming events will also appear throughout the summer in the Around Town section of the Daily Press.
For more information, contact Loveland at eloveland@artesianm.gov or 746-8515. Library hours are 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
