Two midwestern Ontario public libraries will be doing their part to keep kids reading over the summer months.
West Grey Library and Bruce County Public Library will kick off summer reading programs this weekend.
West Grey's offering launches at 2 p.m. on Friday with the Wings Over the Rainforest parrot show at the Durham Legion. It is free to attend and registration is not required.
"Summer reading has proven remarkably effective in keeping kids’ reading skills alive over the break," West Grey Library said in a statement. "The Library has a reading passport, prizes, and great hands-on programs, too. All are welcome, all summer long."
In addition to the kids reading program, the library is holding a Battle of the Genres reading competition for adults. People over the age of 18 will be able to vote on their favourite genre with each book they read over the summer.
In Bruce County, the summer reading club will start on Saturday at the Sauble Beach library branch. The day will include a magic show from the Amazing Andy, live music from folk duo Panzerotti and Sunshine, a reading from Elly Mackay, and a foam pit party. There will also be face painting, crafts, and interactive activities and booths.
Parents can register their children for the reading program at local branches, which will then allow participants to use the Beanstack app or a paper log to track their summer reading. Kids can then earn ribbons and prizes by logging reading time and participating in library activities.
