People of all ages can join the Manhattan Public Library’s summer reading program for free. After signing up online or at the library, participants simply keep track of the time they spend reading or listening to books from June 1 to July 31. Different prizes are awarded based on age group, and can be picked up at the library until August 7. Last year, a total of 2,423 kids, 474 teens, and 465 adults joined in the fun.
The summer program begins with a kickoff party celebrating the theme “Build a Better World” on Saturday, June 3 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Participants can explore different cultures with hands-on activities, interesting artifacts, and cultural representatives from the Manhattan community. Teens are invited to decorate the library windows with images inspired by this year’s theme. This is also a great time to sign up for the program and pick up the first reward.
Other exciting activities such as storytimes, summer clubs, gardening workshops, and more, will be offered throughout the summer. All library programs and activities are free and open to the public, although some programs have limited space and require registration. For more information, check the event schedule or pick up a calendar at one of the library’s service desks.
The nationwide summer reading program has an important mission: to motivate kids, teens, and adults to read for fun and help prevent learning loss while school is out. To accomplish this mission in Manhattan, the Manhattan Public Library has enlisted the help of local partners to give rewards and prizes to readers. Prizes include free books, gift certificates to local restaurants, and passes to local attractions.
Prizes have been purchased by the Manhattan Library Association, Manhattan Library Foundation, or donated by local businesses and organizations.
The library would like to thank the following generous sponsors: Applebee’s, Chick-fil-A, Confucius Center, Cool Care Club, Flint Hills Discovery Center, Goblin Games, Kappa Kappa Gamma, Manhattan Arts Center, Manhattan Kiwanis, Manhattan Library Association, Manhattan Library Foundation, Manhattan Town Center, Noodles & Co., Olson’s Birkenstock, Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N Bake Pizza, Pediatric Associates, Sunset Zoo, Varsity Donuts, and Vista Drive In.