Summer Reading Begins At Area Libraries

Summer reading programs began at area libraries June 4 and run for five weeks, offering incentives, entertainment and special encouragement for the youngest readers in kindergarten through second grade.

“Multiple studies have proven beyond a doubt that children who continue reading during the summer perform better when they return to school in the fall,” said State Librarian Richard Burns. “They score higher on standardized tests, and are more actively engaged in the classroom.” Burns invites teachers to provide the libraries with their reading lists for their out-of-school students.

The Mililani, Wahiawa and Waialua libraries are offering a variety of professional entertainment and a reading finale. Among the entertainers is Wayne Watkins, who, along with his percussionist, Pfahl, will perform a 45-minute sing-along June 20 at the Wahiawa Library. The early child educator and director of the UH Manoa Children’s Center, will play his guitar while leading keiki in the singing of classic and original children’s songs.

Themes for the summer reading programs are, “Dream Big, READ” for children, “Own the Night” for teenagers and “Between the Covers” for adults.

Performances are listed at librarieshawaii.org.