KCKPL to host 2012 Summer Reading program

News Release:

Libraries across the metro are hosting summer reading programs for children and teens.  
In Kansas City, Kansas, libraries are encouraging children to keep their minds active by reading and counting the minutes they spend with books.  Children are encouraged to have a reading goal of 1000 minutes for the summer; teens are encouraged to read for 1500 minutes. 

Children and teens, from birth through high school, can earn free books and other prizes by participating.  A free book is presented to each participant reaching their reading goal and library “dollars” can be earned for every hour spent reading (or being read to), for checking out books, and for attending library programs.  These dollars can be used to buy additional books and prizes, school supplies, or to pay off some library card fees. 

Last year, over 3,600 children and young adults participated in the Kansas City, Kansas Public Library’s summer reading program.  This year’s program runs June 1 – July 31 with the theme of Dream Big! Read!  Teens going into middle and high school have their own theme – Own the Night.  The programs will feature age appropriate activities that encourage youth to learn about astronomy, nocturnal animals, spooky stories, night time activities and much more.  Several programs are also planned to encourage youth to reach for their dreams by exploring different careers, such as law enforcement, journalism and meteorology.  

Families are encouraged to go online to the library’s website www.kckpl.org to register and start logging the minutes they read, or visit their nearest library to pick up a reading log.  Community organizations serving youth, such as community centers, daycares and summer schools, can also partner with the library to participate in summer reading as a group.  Children and teens who participate at their community site and read for 20 minutes a day will each be eligible to earn a free paperback book.  Community sites are encouraged to call their nearest library to register.

Free summer youth programming:
Families can visit the library all throughout the summer to enjoy a variety of free activities.  Programs are planned for all ages, with some designed especially for teens.  Fun programs this summer include: storytimes, crafts, family game days, movie screenings, cooking and nutrition classes, and special presentations by the Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center.

Fine forgiveness:
The library will offer a special fine forgiveness program for youth ages 17 and under during the months of June - August.  Library dollars earned by participating in summer reading can be used to pay off overdue fees and certain other fines on children’s and young adult library cards. 

Impact:
Reading during the summer months positively impacts a child’s ability to retain the knowledge they learn during the school year, keeps their minds active, and helps them explore the world around them.  Encourage the children in your life to read and visit the library today to enrich their summer and start earning fun prizes like books, water bottles, T-shirts and MP3 players.