Youth reading program kicks off tonight at Voorhees Branch Library
The Camden County Library System is pleased to announce its 2016 summer reading program. This summer’s programs will follow a sports theme with “Get Ready, Set … Read” for children and “Get in the Game — Read” for teens and tweens.
Participants are welcome to register for the programs at any of the library’s eight local branches. Once enrolled, younger readers will get an activity sheet to compete for prizes and a chance to win a Barnes and Noble gift card based on time spent reading and titles read. Teens can compete too by completing activity cards for reading incentives and a chance to win their own gift card.
Many of the library’s branches will be hosting summer reading kickoff events and special programs to get readers into the spirit of the program this summer, including the Voorhees Branch staring Monday, June 27.
From 7 to 8:30 p.m. kids ages 3 to 12 can drop by to get the scoop on how the program runs, get signed up, enjoy a snack, and get their face painted.
Summer reading is an effective way to maintain reading abilities and avoid the summer slide that can happen when students are out of school during the ten-week break between the end of June and the beginning of September.
Camden County Library System Director Linda Devlin cites a recent article from Scholastic publishers that reading only six books with a child during the summer months may keep a struggling reader from regressing.
“Take advantage of all that our library has to offer,” Devlin said. “Ask our well-qualified librarians for help in selecting books that match your child’s abilities and interests. All of our branches participate in the summer reading program and offer activities to stimulate and motivate readers of all ages.”
Camden County Freeholder William Moen, who serves as the Camden County Board of Freeholder’s liaison to the library system, agrees.
“Don’t overlook the importance of your summer reading options. Summer reading is a great way to get jump on the next school year,” Moen said.
