Kids of all ages are invited to the eight-week reading program.
Kids of all ages are invited to find out why “Libraries Rock” by participating in the Burlington County Library System’s 2018 Summer Reading Program kicking off on June 18 at all library branches.
Once again, the eight-week program encourages children and teens to put their summer vacations to good use by tracking their reading progress, attending free library events, and earning fun prizes.
“Research shows that children who participate in library programs during their summer vacations better retain the reading skills they gained during the school year, and may even improve them,” said BCLS Director, Ranjna Das. “Offered annually, our popular Summer Reading Program helps kids avoid the ‘summer slide’ by reading great books and enjoying a variety of wonderful library programs. We’re looking forward to welcoming back some familiar faces and we encourage those who haven’t previously participated to join in the fun.”
This year’s Summer Reading theme is “Libraries Rock” and kids are encouraged to find time to read lots of great books at home, at the beach or wherever they may find themselves relaxing during their break from the classroom.
In addition, free library programs about science, nature and more at all library branches will help keep their minds sharp all summer long.
This is the third year kids and teens will be able to use “Beanstack,” the library system’s online tracking system, to participate in the BCLS Summer Reading program. Through Beanstack, participants will be able to log reading progress, explore books lists and access Activity Tracks, interactive, step-by-step guides customized for each age group and designed to encourage learning, curiosity and fun. (Paper BCLS reading logs also will be available at each library branch.)
Kids ages 12 and under will have fun earning badges for each reading milestone, which may be redeemed for prizes. To earn one badge, children ages 5 and under must read (or have read to them) 10 books, and children ages 6 to 12 must read three books. Prizes will vary by branch and may include raffle entries, books, coupons and more. Those who reach all the reading milestones will earn the most prizes and extra rewards may be earned by completing the online Activity Tracks.
Summer Reading participants ages 13 to 18 can also join in the fun and earn prizes by completing Summer Reading Activity Tracks online or Activity Cards available at all library branches. And teens who use Beanstack to log their reading progress will earn additional prize opportunities for every book they read.
The Burlington County Library System includes the Burlington County Library in Westampton, and the Bordentown, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Maple Shade, Pemberton, Pinelands and Riverton branches. For more information about the BCLS 2018 Summer Reading Program, contact Holly Hoskins at (856) 983–1444, Theresa Preziosa at (609) 893–8262, or Megan Dehmelt at (609) 267–9660, or go to www.bcls.lib.nj.us.
