Just imagine

Imagine your story. The theme for the 2020 Summer Reading Program encourages kids not only dig into the pages of a good book but let their mind imagine their own characters, setting and adventures.

While the Baxter Public Library isn’t able to hold the summer reading program like it has in the past, the librarians are still encouraging kids to grab a book and dive in.

“Right now, all we are doing is reading logs,” library director Marie Van Beek said.

Kids are invited to stop in and grab a reading log during they library’s hours, Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. The reading logs also are available on a shelf inside the main doors of the school.

As kids fill out their logs and clock reading time, prizes will be handed out with milestones reached. From toys and games to headbands and many other entertaining items, there is something for everyone to celebrate reaching their goals.

Unfortunately due to the ongoing pandemic, opportunities to see guests entertainers like the library has featured in the past such as a visit from the Blank Park Zoo or a magician are put on hold for now.

“All programs are canceled until at least the middle of July,” Van Beek said.

Even with an altered program, the drive to get kids to continue reading is strong. According to Collaborative Summer Library Program, the organization behind the themed summer reading programs, traditionally, summer reading programs are designed to encourage elementary-aged children to keep reading during summer vacation. Preventing the “summer slide” continues to be the main objective of summer reading programs.

For more information about the summer reading program in Baxter, contact the Baxter Public Library at 641-227-3934.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com