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Summer Readers Celebrate at B'ham Library

by Press Release8/5/2009 1:34:08 PM

Bellingham children who have finished reading 15 or more books this summer as part of Bellingham Public Library’s Summer Reading program will be congratulated this Friday, August 7, at a Recognition Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on the Central Library lawn.

How many books has your child read this summer?

Mayor Dan Pike, Library Director Pam Kiesner, and Head of Children’s Services Scott Blume will be announcing the names of each reader and shaking their hands. After the ceremony, the Friends of the Bellingham Public Library will be holding a children’s used book sale in the Lecture Room, and all Summer Reading finalists will be allowed to select one free book as their prize.

“I like to take my kids each year as they become more accomplished readers,” said Assistant Director Christine Perkins. “Shaking the Mayor’s hand is a big deal for them – and it reinforces the idea that grown-ups think reading is important – and fun. The instant gratification of choosing a free book to keep is a nice plus.”

Throughout the summer, children have been encouraged to “Be Creative @ your library” and win prizes for keeping up their reading skills. All participants receive a WTA free ride coupon; children who read five books receive 2-for-1 coupons for the Arne Hanna Aquatic Center. After ten books, children win a mystery coupon from one of seven community partners. At 15 titles, children reach the grand prize of a free book of their choice from the Friends’ sale.

“The Friends have been stocking up on a great selection of children’s titles at all reading levels,” said Children’s Library Specialist Bethany Hoglund. “We’re grateful that they’ve been such loyal supporters of the Summer Reading Program over the years.”

Special thanks go to this year’s community partners: Arne Hanna Aquatic Center, the Bagelry, Fairhaven Pizza, Friends of the Bellingham Public Library, Friends of the Fairhaven Library, Katie’s Cupcakes, Mallard Ice Cream, Mt. Baker Theatre, Our Kitchen is Your Kitchen, Woods Coffee, and WTA.

Children do not need to attend the Recognition Ceremony to receive their prizes. They can visit the library by Saturday, August 29 to receive any prizes they've earned.

Children are encouraged to take advantage of these last weeks of summer to read all those books they haven't gotten to yet. Kids can even read books online with Tumblebooks.

Questions? Contact the Bellingham Children’s Library at (360) 778-7200.