Summer reading programs offer books, events
Ephrata Public Library branch supervisor Aaron Loeffelbein prepares for the annual summer library program in late May.
COURTESY PHOTO/NCW LIBRARIES
WENATCHEE — With sunny weather and warm days dead ahead, summer reading programs are beginning at local public libraries.
The Mid-Columbia Libraries system, which includes the Othello Public Library, already started its “Summer Reading Challenge.” Children and adults can participate; the challenge requires participants to read or listen to books for a minimum of 15 hours prior to Aug. 18.
Children 12 years of age and younger receive a free book if they complete the challenge, while teens and adults receive a free lunch bag, while supplies last. Successful participants are eligible for prizes, including the grand prize, a Nintendo Switch Mario bundle.
Participants can keep track of their reading online or can pick up a book log at the local library.
“Reading is Delicious” is the MCL theme for 2023.
The NCW Libraries “Summer LIbrary Program” begins June 12. Families can pick up an activity pack at the local NCW Libraries branch beginning June 12, or register online at the NCW Libraries website, www.ncwlibraries.org.
“Libraries are for Everyone” is the 2023 theme.
There are events and presentations throughout both library systems, and each branch has its own summer programming. Each library system also will present some virtual events.
Josh Funk, author of “Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast,” among other books, will talk with MCL participants online June 7 and 8.
The “Reptile Lady” will be in Othello June 22 with snakes, lizards and other cold-blooded creatures. More information on other library programs, in the library branches and online, is available on the MCL website, www.midcolumbialibraries.org.
Each library in the NCW system has its own schedule of events, which can be found on the website. The NCW system will also host virtual events, a list of which is available on the website.
Children’s author and illustrator Erik Brooks will visit a number of libraries, talk about his books and do some drawing with the children. The Mattawa library will host a mariachi program, and the Warden library will give children a lesson in fire safety, complete with a fire engine from Grant County Fire District 4. The Moses Lake library will be showing movies throughout the summer.
Cheryl Schweizer may be reached at cschweizer@columbiabasinherald.com.