BY PENNY LEUTHARD, STAFF WRITER
The Clearwater and Becker libraries kicked off their summer reading programs this week with a lot of fun and excitement at both branches. The theme of this year’s program is ‘Reading Takes You Everywhere,’ focusing on the excitement of new discoveries that can be found in books and libraries.
The Becker Library started out their summer reading program Monday with family rock ‘n roll music from Ralph’s World with Ralph Covert, which they hosted as part of the Becker Freedom Days Open Streets event.
Wednesday, the Clearwater Library kicked off their summer reading program with Robert the Magician. Twenty-seven kids and adults were entertained as Magic Bob performed magic tricks with the help of the Lovely Lynn Marie, and showed them how books can take them on amazing journeys.
This year’s summer reading program events being held at the Becker Library include Zoom, Rocket, Zoom! with Joan Jacobson on June 19 (art class), Dollipops on June 26 (music event), Bad Art Night on July 25 (create the worst art piece), and S.T.E.M. days on June 28, July 19 and August 16 (Legos, Snap Circuits and Marble Runs). Read and Play Storytime is also being held Tuesdays through August 14.
Summer reading program events being held at the Clearwater Library include Kidpower with Rachael Kroog on June 21, Nature’s Explorers on June 26, Zoom, Rocket, Zoom! with Joan Jacobson on July 24 (art class), Big Fun on July 31 (one man circus), Summer Reading Program Wrap Up Party on August 7, and Storytime & Activities June 19, July 3, 10 and 17. Minnesota Roadside Attractions challenge is also being held weekly through August 11.
The goal of the summer reading program is to defeat the ‘summer slide,’ which occurs when students fall backward in learning during their three-month summer break. The benefits of reading during this time are huge. Research has shown that students who participate in summer reading programs score higher on reading achievement tests in the fall than those who didn’t participate.
The libraries’ summer reading program is for children and teens 0 to 18 who enjoy reading, programs, fun and prizes. This year’s program runs through August 11.
The Clearwater and Becker libraries belong to the Great River Regional Library system. For more information on programs available at all branches, visit griver.org/events.
