Summer Reading Program for Kids and Teens

Alliance-area children and teens are invited to take part in the Summer Reading Program at Rodman Public Library. This year's theme for children is "One World, Many Stories", and the teen theme is "Travel the World Through Books". The program will begin on May 31 and run through August 27.

Participants of the Children's/Teen summer reading program will receive a reading record to keep track of the amount of time spent reading. Those who complete ten hours of reading over the thirteen weeks will receive a certificate of completion and their choice of a new paperback book to keep. Those who read twelve hours or more will receive a special bonus prize. Students in grades Kindergarten through 8 can also win prizes for their school based on the number of children who complete the required ten hours of reading.

The library will offer many programs over the summer. "World of Difference" Artistic Director, Lindsay Bonilla, will present two "Around the World" adventures. On Thursday, June 30, at 2 p.m., "The Ram in the Chile Patch: a Folktale from Mexico" tells the tale of Juan, a young boy who chooses to play with his friends instead of taking care of the family chile patch. A big ram with a love of chile peppers takes up residence. Can Juan save the day?

On Thursday, July 28, at 2 p.m., Bonilla will present "King Lion's Gifts: a Folktale from Africa." This pour quoi tale explains how the zebra got its stripes, the elephant its tusks and the rabbit its long ears. Both programs are for parents and children alike and are jam-packed with opportunities for audience participation. These programs are funded by ArtsinStark. More...

On Saturday, July 23, at 2 p.m., Michael Roy Baldridge will make an appearance with his "Cirque du Papier" origami workshop for children in grades 4 and up. He will be making classic Japanese origami pieces as well as contemporary origami surprises. He will also bring his quick wit and extensive knowledge of origami history and techniques and his "MicRo Gallery" of intricate and amazing origami sculptures. He will also be folding and giving away some fabulous creations as keepsakes.

Local expert Gary Broadbent will bring his knowledge of boomerangs to the library on Wednesday, August 24, at 2 p.m. "Boomerangs are Coming Back!" is a one-hour enthusiastic, motivational, educational program that discusses the history, science, craft, hobby, sport, art and competition of boomerangs. Receive instructions that teach basic principles of throwing and catching boomerangs in a small area. Some of the program may be outside, weather permitting. This is a program for the whole family.

"Tales for Tails" will allow children to practice their reading skills over the summer. Join Ruth DeFranco and others who will bring their trained Therapy Dogs to the library to "listen" to stories. Children can sign up for reading sessions and cuddle up with a good book and an appreciative four-legged friend. Sessions will be held on the following Tuesdays: June 21, July 5, 19, and August 2, and 23. More...

Brown Bag Lunches will return for six consecutive Wednesdays from noon to 1 p.m. starting on June 22. Children ages 5 and up, and parents, will enjoy stories and activities along with lunch. Free hot lunches for those 18 years and under will be provided by the Summer Food Service Program, or you may pack your own meal. More...

Lapsit programs for two and three year olds will continue on Monday nights at 6:30 p.m. and Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. Storytime programs for ages four through six will continue on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m. and Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. In June, sessions will be at the Carnation Mall Branch and in July and August they will be at the Main Library.

Watch for information about a sure-to-be-popular ongoing program with our three Wii and Xbox 360 with Kinect gaming systems. We will offer programs for all ages and skill levels. This project is funded in part through an Institute of Museum and Library Services LSTA grant awarded by the State Library of Ohio, and the Friends of Rodman Public Library.

The Children's Summer Reading Program is sponsored by the Friends of Rodman Public Library and the Alliance Rotary Club.

Children's Librarian, Janet Metzger, would like to let everyone know "that the Rodman Public Library is the place to be for fun this summer."