Lebanon library kicks off summer reading program

Jun. 6—Lebanon Public Library Children's Librarian Jessie Fleming says she's excited about the Kenworthy Summer Reading Program.

Years ago, the Kenworthy family made a donation to the library to help further reading education around Lebanon and this year, LPL is using some of that money for its summer reading kickoff, Youth Services Coordinator Debbie Barr said.

There truly is an, "ocean of possibilities" — this year's program theme — with the summer reading program. The first kickoff event since 2019 featured food, door prizes, an ocean-themed bounce house, carnival games, a mobile petting zoo, vendor booths, face painting and a princess meet and greet.

Fleming said the summer reading program is a great way to keep children's minds focused and ready for when school starts back in the fall.

The library has events throughout the summer to go alongside its ocean-themed program. Weekly story times, beach rock painting and other ocean-themed events will keep kids reading throughout the summer.

Many libraries around the state are also going along with the ocean theme, Fleming said.

Although oceans are a statewide summer reading theme, Fleming's favorite animal is a shark, and there are plans to have a special shark week-themed activities.

Signing up for the summer reading program is as easy as going to lebib.org, signing up, and logging your reading throughout the summer. As you log your reading, you will become eligible to receive prizes for your accomplishments.

Barr said Beanstack, the service LPL uses for its summer reading program, is great for tracking how much you've read. You don't even need a library card to sign up, she added.

"So many people came out to support us and we hope they return all summer long for more fun," Barr said.