Haddonfield children are welcomed to the starting line in the friendly reading race where everyone is a winner.
The Haddonfield Public Library says, “On Your Mark, Get Set, READ!” this summer with its Summer Reading Program all about sports, fitness and healthy eating. The HPL held its summer reading kick-off party last week, entertaining children, but also inviting them to challenge themselves by reading six books before Sept. 7 to win a prize.
“The staff can help you pick out the age-appropriate book for your child,” Children’s Librarian Jordan Bilodeau said.
Each year, a Summer Reading Program is held at the library. According to Bilodeau, continuous reading creates life-long learners. The summer program also helps with socialization and bringing the community together.
“The summer reading program gets lots of families (to the library) and they’re socializing and talking about books and interacting with one another. So it is great. I have kids in the program who make new friends,” Bilodeau said.
Children from pre-k to seniors are invited to take part in the Summer Reading Program, “On Your Mark, Get Set, READ!” for children and “Get in the Game-Read” for teens. All they have to do is sign up and read six books by Sept. 7.
Children up to middle school are invited to read whatever they wish. Middle school students and up are invited to read their required reading for their six books, or more. Bilodeau said any number of books is encouraged to be read over the summer, she even has extra lists; however, only six are required to win a prize. The prize is a gift card to Haddonfield’s local Inkwood Books or to Gelato Dolceria.
“We’re supporting local businesses this summer,” Bilodeau said.
Children can get their books once the library is open. However if they just can’t wait, the HPL has partnerships with other local libraries, such as the Camden County Library system, Cherry Hill Public Library and the Haddon Heights Public Library, where they can borrow books while the library is closed.
Bilodeau hopes that children who partake in the Summer Reading Program try a new book or genre they’ve never read before. Who knows? Maybe it will be their next favorite go-to book.
“(I also hope) that they’ll continue to read throughout the year, not just the summer,” Bilodeau said. “
Throughout the summer, though the library is closed, children’s summer programs will continue at Borough Hall. Special this summer are the classes that children can partake in that are centered on the Summer Reading Program theme of exercise and healthy eating. Such classes include sports classes, yoga classes and little chef classes.
Also, the End of Summer Party will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 23 at 4 p.m. in the Borough Hall Auditorium. Children of all ages are invited to enjoy a show with Magic by Ed, followed by Rita’s Italian ice. No registration is required.
For a list of classes, visit www.haddonfieldlibrary.org. To register for a program, email Bilodeau at jbilodeau@haddonfieldlibrary.org.
