Summer reading programs start Saturday
By Laura Collins
Published in News on June 12, 2009 1:46 PM
Jackie Longwell isn't wasting any time with her grandson, Michael. Though he's only 4 years old, she's already getting him interested in reading.
"I'm a huge advocate for reading and introducing young children to books. I started taking my grandson to the library when he was 16-17 months old," she said.
For the third year in a row, Longwell and her grandson will be participating in the Wayne County Public Library Summer Reading Program.
The program begins Saturday at the Goldsboro and Fremont branches. The program kick-off event runs from 2-4 p.m. at the Goldsboro branch and features storyteller Priscilla Best.
This year's theme is "Be Creative" and encourages children to explore reading.
"The whole purpose is to encourage kids to read throughout the summer and to make reading fun and enjoyable," said Shorlette Ammons-Stephens, head of children's services at the library. "Reading is a great opportunity for kids to explore their interests and it keeps them motivated when they're out of school. We want kids to find things that reflect themselves and we believe that every kid should be able to find themselves in a book."
So far, more than 500 people have already pre-registered for the reading program at the Goldsboro branch, more than last year's total which was between 400-500.
As part of the program there will be sessions for groups of children on Monday and Tuesday, and individual children on Wednesday at the Goldsboro branch.
The sessions will have crafts, artists, guest speakers, stories and songs for the children. To register at the Goldsboro branch, contact the children's department at 735-1824 ext. 5105.
The Fremont branch also will participate in the reading festivities. The library will have sessions every Monday. To register at the Fremont branch call 705-1893.
The Pikeville and the Steele Memorial summer reading programs will begin on June 18.