The Smith Library is inviting children to dive into books, creativity and friendship this summer as its annual summer reading program returns with a new aquatic-themed adventure.

Running every Thursday from July 9 to Aug. 13, the free program encourages children to keep reading throughout the summer while enjoying crafts, games and time with friends.
Library manager Ruth Reay says that the Smith School students visited the library on June 16 – there, she introduced this year’s program.

“The visit was great,” Reay says. “The Smith School children seemed interested to know what the library program for the summer was like. A lot of them had participated in previous years, so that was encouraging, I think, to the ones who did not attend previously.”

Reay shares that this year’s theme, ‘Dive In’, will inspire many of the weekly activities.
Each session begins with story time, followed by a themed craft and, weather permitting, an outdoor game. The crafts will focus on oceans, lakes, rivers and streams, bringing the theme to life while encouraging imagination and creativity.

The program is open to children ages 4 to 12 years old and is designed to help them continue learning during the summer break while building a lifelong love of reading, says Reay.

According to Reay, participants are encouraged to track the number of minutes they read throughout the summer. For every 15 minutes of reading, children earn an entry into a weekly prize draw, giving them extra motivation to pick up a book.

Reay says the summer reading program has become a tradition in Smith Library and continues to be an important part of the community each year.

“I have had the reading program run every summer,” she says. “It is an important part of our community in regards to keeping the kids engaged.”

The library has consistently received strong support from local families, she added.
The program will ensure every family has the opportunity to participate regardless of financial circumstances, Reay mentions.

For Reay, one of the highlights of the summer is spending time with the children and watching them connect with one another.

“I am looking forward to engaging with the children,” she says.
She hopes participants leave the program with more than just prizes and completed books.

“I hope they see the value in having a space to come and enjoy socializing with their friends,” Reay says.
Looking ahead, Reay hopes the program will continue serving local families for years to come while helping more people discover what the Smith Library has to offer.

“I am hoping the program will continue to benefit our community and raise awareness of the services the library provides,” she says.

Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader