This summer the SouthShore Regional Library in Ruskin is hosting summer reading programs and other fun activities for children and teens. The theme for the summer is ‘Libraries Rock!’ In addition to the reading programs, the library has several fun events planned for children (in grades kindergarten to five) and teens (grades six through 12).
Students are encouraged to read and learn over the summer. Children of all ages can read their way to the ballpark with Reading with the Rays. Beginning on Sunday, May 27, children can pick up their game card and begin tracking their hours. Once they have read three hours, they can receive a Rays Arm sleeve. After five more hours, they can get Rays Sunglasses, and then a Rays Drawstring Bag after seven more hours. If they complete a total of 24 hours, they will receive two free tickets to a Rays game.
Children and adults can participate in the ‘You’re in the Band’ backstage pass program. Log in your reading hours and earn digital badges and reading rewards. At the end of the summer, if you read 24 hours, children can receive a free book of their choice. Teens and adults will be entered into a raffle for a gift card prize.
In addition to the reading programs, the library is offering events for teens and children.
On Tuesday, June 5 teens can participate in a Community Drum Circle at 2 p.m. This is presented by Giving Tree Music. On Tuesday, June 12, teens can join Hula Hooping- Rock Your Body at 2 p.m.
On Thursday, June 21 at 1 and 2:30 p.m. children can join American Tall Tales and Songs Storyteller, Katie Adams, as she spins tall tales woven with old time songs. Then, on Thursday, June 28, Mad Science will unlock the science of sound using ordinary items to make spectacular noises.
Cheryl Wolfe, Administrative Librarian said, “By offering summer reading events and classes, children are able to engage in educational and cultural learning opportunities for free, helping children maintain their intellectual growth and critical thinking skills.” Wolfe added, “Studies have shown that by the end of third grade, children who have participated in library summer reading programs have much better reading scores than children who have not.”
The library programs are funded by the Friends of the SouthShore Regional Library. For more information, please visit www.hcplc.org.
