Libraries modify summer reading programs
Local libraries are still offering summer reading programs this year, but in-person gatherings have been exchanged for “grab and go” activity kits and at-home reading. This photo shows one of the book kits available at the McGregor Public Library. (Submitted photo)
COVID-19 hasn’t stopped local libraries from offering their annual summer reading programs. The events will look a bit different, though, with in-person gatherings exchanged for “grab and go” activity kits and at-home reading.
Elkader Public Library
In an effort to keep everyone safe, the Elkader Public Library will not have any programs or performers. Instead, patrons are asked to call the library at (563) 245-1446 or email elkader
library@elkader.lib.ia.us to request a summer reading registration form.
The library will have activities planned for toddlers through fourth graders. Staff will contact parents to pick up supplies and the first two weeks of plans and activities, and after that, there will be additional plans and activities to pick up every two weeks through the end of July.
Because books and supplies are being provided up front, there won’t be any additional incentives this year. The reading log will consist of calendar pages children can place stickers on each day they read, and it will not need to be returned to the library.
For those who have access to the internet, the library will offer a few Zoom story times for the younger children and some Zoom read-alouds for the older children.
Families are encouraged to share their activities by posting photos or dropping notes in the book return.
Garnavillo Public Library
Sign up for the Garnavillo Public Library’s “Imagine Your Stories” summer reading program will begin June 16.
Contracts will be available at the circulation desk. Librarians will fill out the information and then the child will sign the contract. The contract stays at the library. Each contract signer will receive a reading log to take home and keep track of the books they read. Return the paper and show the librarians by Aug. 8, to see if your contract was completed.
If completed, the child’s name will be put in for the grand prize drawing in their reading level. All grand prizes are on display at the library. There will be a bonus drawing, which kids can sign up for every time they come to the library to check out books.
Staff are also planning some “grab and go” craft activities kids can take home and assemble.
Due to circumstances, the library will not have any in-library story time gatherings. However, some virtual story times are planned; check the library website and Facebook page for details.
The library will not have the weekly prize drawings or the candy jar guessing game this year, and the lunch and award program will also not be held.
Everyone who signs a contract will receive a bag of goodies at the end of the program. All prize drawings will be on Aug. 12.
McGregor Public Library
McGregor Public Library Children’s Librarian Jane Lundquist has developed book kits this year, in place of in-person programming.
Book kits include instructions and supplies for a craft, creative process or discovery/experimental activity. There are 22 book kit projects available, paired with 48 books. Children will select from several books that are companions to the projects they would like to try. The projects are designed for a variety of ages, interests and skill levels.
“It’s not just making a project,” said Lundquist, “but having fun with what you make.”
Children will make and keep their project, but return the book, instruction sheets and containers to the library.
For more information, call the library at (563) 873-3318.
Murphy Helwig Library
Murphy Helwig Library, in Monona, will offer a modified summer reading program during the month of July.
After participants are registered, staff will have a summer reading program pick up event on Wednesday, June 24, where families will pick up a pre-packed bag filled with activities, crafts and minutes calendar. Kids can choose to do the activities and crafts on their own or they can follow along with Facebook live events each week beginning on Wednesday, July 1.
Reading minutes will still be turned in weekly (either by phone or email) and tallied for prizes at the end.
The ending event will be on Wednesday, July 29. The exact activities that will take place will be determined at a later date.
