
“The Summer Reading program is a great way to keep everyone reading while out of school. It helps to retain vital language and reading skills while keeping it fun. We hope that families will register and participate together,” says Library Director Gail Zachariah. "With this in mind, we have been working hard to enhance our collection. Research shows that free choice is an important element of summer reading, and we want to provide all the options we can."
The program will kick off on Saturday, June 28, at 10:30 a.m. with a celebration at the Whiting Library, 117 Main Street, Chester, Vt. The special guest of honor will be New Hampshire author Carrie Kruck, who will read from one of her picture books. All youth who attend can select two new books from various options! A Children's Literacy Foundation (CLiF) grant makes the book giveaway and author presentation possible.
Throughout the summer, participants of all ages can visit the library for special programs and events. The summer lineup includes story and play times, craft activities for all ages, and afternoon film screenings. A complete list of programming is available at WhitingLibrary.org/events.
Kids are invited to boost their reading confidence by reading aloud to a gentle, trained therapy dog named Orla. Kathleen Karl, a registered therapy dog handler and seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience helping children become successful readers, will be on hand to support young participants. Reading times are available July 2 through August 2, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Appointments are suggested; please call Whiting Library at 802-875-2277 to schedule an appointment.
The Nature Museum will again offer a series of incredible nature programs in the library backyard this summer. On seven consecutive Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m., starting June 25 and ending August 6, an environmental educator from The Nature Museum will introduce children of all ages to the wonders of the natural world through demonstrations, games, and crafts. These programs will take place in the library's backyard, weather permitting. IN case of inclement weather, the program will be held in Whiting Library's Community Room.
Library staff emphasize that the Summer Reading Program provides more than just entertainment. It helps children and teens retain academic skills during the break, improves reading comprehension and vocabulary, and fosters a lifelong love of reading. For more information and updates, visit WhitingLibrary.org, call 802-875-2277, or stop by the library at 117 Main Street in Chester, Vt.
Summer Reading at Whiting Library is made possible thanks to our donors, whose donations allow us to bring quality programs to our library, purchase books, and perform effective community outreach.