GILROY
– Youth around Gilroy are putting their hands together for
reading – literally. Gilroy Public Library is kicking off its
summer reading program this week with kindergartners through
eighth-graders decorating hand prints to show off on the library
walls.
GILROY – Youth around Gilroy are putting their hands together for reading – literally. Gilroy Public Library is kicking off its summer reading program this week with kindergartners through eighth-graders decorating hand prints to show off on the library walls.
This year’s theme for the children’s program – now in its 34th year – is “join the reader’s circle – read.” Children’s Program Librarian Linda Glawatz hopes the program does just that and is successful in getting children to enjoy the pleasures of reading.
“Some people read a whole lot of books, some people just read enough to get the free book. We just want them to read and keep reading,” Glawatz said.
Fifty-six children signed up on Monday, the first day of registration. In a matter of minutes, children can get equipped with a hand print and reading record to keep track of the books they finish by visiting the children’s reference desk.
But the fun won’t stop after they sign up. As part of the children’s program, activities are scheduled for every Thursday at 3:30 p.m. beginning today through July 24. They will last about 45 minutes each and will coincide with the year’s theme.
The Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Center, WERC, will lead three events one of which is entitled “Circle of Life.” The remaining programs are organized by the library, including a puppet show and craft program. Glawatz will also entertain her audience by telling stories from around the world. At the final activity, those who read at least seven books will pick up a free paperback courtesy of Friends of the Gilroy Library.
The children aren’t the only ones who get to join the fun this summer. Teens and adults can sign up for programs geared toward their age groups at the adult reference desk.
Adult Program Librarian Sally Leete said young adults should participate because, “its a fun way to win prizes for the reading they’d be doing this summer anyway.”
Teens between 13 and 19 years old will receive a free paperback if they read at least five books and complete three library activities, such as using the library database.
In order to emphasize reading as a family activity, Leete began the adult program in 2002 for book lovers 20 years and older.
For every book read or audio book listened to, adults can turn in an entry slip. Each week one winner will be selected to get a prize including free ice cream, movie ticket, cappuccino or pizza. At the end of the reading program, each participant who turned in at least five entry slips will be entered in the grand prize drawing for a gift certificate to Bonfante Gardens Family Theme Park. Everyone will receive a certificate of completion and a gift certificate for a free book.
There is no cut-off date for sign-ups.
The library is located at 7387 Rosanna St. Hours are Monday and Tuesday from 1 to 9 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call
842-8208.
