Catch the Summer Reading Bug at APL
This year’s theme for the statewide summer reading program is Catch the Reading Bug, and there is no better place to catch it than Albany Public Library, and everyone is included—kids, teens, toddlers and adults.
School-aged children can join us for storytimes, crafts, special programs and prizes. Plus, we’ll help them keep track of the great books they read. This year, even toddlers and preschoolers have their own program we call Bookworm. The theme for teenagers is Metamorphosis @ Your Library. Metamorphosis is a process of conspicuous change not only in bugs, but young adults, as they grow through reading.
Adults can enjoy summer reading by being a part of APL’s popular Read It & Rate It program, which allows adults to rate the books they read during the summer. Read It & Rate It comment forms will be available at all library locations. Completed forms will be placed in regular drawings for some great prizes such as dining gift certificates and coupons from local merchants.
Research shows that children who read during the summer perform better when school resumes in the fall. Kids are participating in summer reading fun at public libraries statewide in growing numbers — in 2007, 1.35 million participated, a 300% increase since 2000. “Children need to keep reading through the summer so they don’t have to catch up on their reading skills when they return to school in the fall. When children read throughout the summer, they become better readers and better learners. I urge families to take advantage of the free reading program offered this summer,” said State Education Commissioner Richard Mills.
The Summer Reading Program continues the partnership between APL and the Albany City School District to promote reading, literacy and lifelong learning. All books read during APL’s Summer Reading Program will be counted toward each child’s “100 Book Challenge”. It’s important to remember though, that reading is it’s own reward. Karen Basher, North Albany Branch Librarian, said, “When I was growing up, what I really loved about reading in the summer was that you could read just for fun. I read adventure stories, science fiction, poetry, whatever I felt like reading at the moment.”
The Friends of APL have continued their generous support of the Summer Reading Program and local businesses are providing coupons and prizes for children as well. Registration for all Summer Reading Programs begins on Friday, June 27 and the program runs through Monday, August 18.
Don’t forget to pick up a full brochure of APL Summer Reading activities at any APL location, visit our website at www.albanypubliclibrary.org, or you can call for more information at any APL Location - just ask for the Youth Services Librarian.