Catch the Reading Bug
Washington County Libraries’ Summer Reading Programs for Young Readers
Catch the Reading Bug! Summer Reading 2008
1. Why do libraries in Washington County conduct Summer Reading Programs for youth?
Throughout the long days of summer Washington County libraries offer hundreds of activities to educate and entertain kids. Research has shown that children who continue reading during the summer do better in school. Our Summer Reading programs are structured to encourage children to read throughout the summer. The programs foster a love of books and reading and are a lot of fun.
Babies, Toddlers and Pre-Readers are also invited to participate in the Summer Reading program with a reading partner. Most libraries refer to this sub-program as a “Read to Me” program.
2. Why is it important to read to young children?
It builds important pre-reading skills before children enter school or learn to read. Research shows that reading to young children everyday is the best thing you can do to help them get ready to become readers. It’s never too early to begin reading to children.
3. How does the program work?
Children sign up for the program at their local library. They are asked to set a reading goal for themselves. There are incentives for signing up for the program, for continuing to read and visit the library throughout the summer. Many libraries also allow the children to pick out a book of their choice that has been sponsored by local businesses such as Wells Fargo and PGE. There are also many other incentives and special activities throughout the summer.
4. What types of incentives are there?
Every child who signs up for summer reading at a library in Washington County will receive a coupon good for one FREE round of Miniature Golf or one Kidopolis Playland admission at the Family Fun Center & Bullwinkle’s Restaurant located in Wilsonville—the coupon is valid June 1–September 2, 2008. They also receive a Summer Reading pencil and bookmark.
Every child who meets their summer reading goal will receive a coupon good for an all day Oaks Amusement Park ride bracelet for only $3.75 for use on our Washington County Summer Reading Celebration day which will be on Wednesday, August 13 or on the alternate date of Thursday, August 21. Finishers will also receive a free ticket to a Trail Blazers game. Also, they will receive a certificate/bookmark/coupon good for a free personal sized pizza with the purchase of one drink while supplies last.
In addition, children are encouraged to visit the library on a regular basis throughout the summer. During some of their visits to the library the children may be eligible to pick a prize from a summer reading prize box. Items to choose from will vary from library to library, but frequently include items such as stickers, bookmarks, pencils, etc
5. Is there a theme for the program?
Yes, this year’s Summer Reading theme is “Catch the Reading Bug”. Many of the libraries’ special activities will incorporate this theme.
6. What are the special activities?
All together, Washington County libraries host over 100 performances each summer that include things such as juggling, comedy, magic or puppet shows, and storytelling. Some libraries also provide craft activities. Each summer reading performance is designed to tie the activity back to the importance of reading, learning about new things, and fun is of course a big part of the program as well.
7. Is there a charge for any of these activities?
No, the Summer Reading Program and all associated activities are provided FREE of charge to participants due in a large part to generous sponsors. We do, however ask that children sign up at ONLY one library for the reading program so that we have enough prizes for all the children who complete their reading goals.
8. Who are the sponsors for the Summer Reading Program?
There are many countywide sponsors of the 2007 Summer Reading Program. They are listed on your screen. This year funding and in-kind support for the summer reading program has been provided: Family Fun Center & Bullwinkle’s Restaurant, Oaks Amusement Park, The Standard, The Oregonian, Portland’s The CW 32, Wells Fargo, PGE, El Hispanic News, KUIK 1360 AM Radio, Alpha Graphics, Comcast, Trail Blazers, Round Table Pizza, and by a Ready to Read grant from the Oregon State Library. In addition, many community businesses and civic groups frequently contribute to their local library summer program.
