The school year is ending, and now the busiest time of the year starts for public libraries.
It is Summer Reading time! The Collaborative Summer Library Program, (CSLP), which began in 1987, includes representation from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, and the Mariana Islands. The CSLP is a non-profit, charitable organization that supports literacy, education, and science through summer reading events in public libraries.
Collaborating libraries use the same theme; this year the theme is “All Together Now.” Each library can interpret the theme in a way that best suits their community.
Studies have shown that a public library summer reading program is beneficial to a community as a whole. Libraries offer programs and activities for all ages. The programs and activities encourage an opportunity for family time. Reluctant readers and families who do not usually visit the library can join in the programs and activities. It helps children keep their reading skills up during the summer.
If a child reads 4-6 books over the summer, they can retain their end of the school year reading level. Reading is a skill that needs to be practiced, and participating in a summer reading challenge is one way to do that.
The Cassville Branch Library has numerous activities planned for all ages during the months of June and July. On June 5, learn about the joys of RVing with a presentation “On the Road Again.”
The Opera of the Ozarks, based out of Eureka Springs, Ark., will be performing the children’s opera “Cinderella” on June 8. Come to Roaring River State Park on June 10 to enjoy a family movie under the stars. The remainder of June will include painting, history of survival in the hardscrabble Ozarks, Jetpack Jason with Mad Science, the Dickerson Park Zoo, how seniors can keep their car keys, and Fishin’ Magicians.
July is full of activities, another movie under the stars, making T-shirt quilts, Rusty Pliers, Marko Polo and Celia, Canning 101, swimming at the Cassville Aquatic Center and more. Check with the library for times and locations of the programs.
While enjoying the programs and activities offered by the library, consider enrolling in the Summer Reading Challenge. The challenge is open to all ages, those who have books read to them, as well as those who read on their own. The entire family can participate. A library card is required to earn incentives and prizes.
“All Together Now” is a way that libraries across the nation can unite to offer their communities shared library experiences. “All Together Now” is a way for our community to encourage children to practice their reading skills through the summer. “All Together Now” is a way for families and individuals to enjoy activities as a group. “All Together Now” is a way to remind us we are not alone.
Cheryl Williams is the branch supervisor of the Cassville Branch Library. She may be reached at cheryl@blrlibrary.com.
“If a child reads 4-6 books over the summer, they can retain their end of the school year reading level.
Reading is a skill that needs to be practiced, and participating in a summer reading challenge is one way to do that.”
