Beat the "Summer Slide"

 The library's annual Summer Reading Club begins on June 24 and runs through August 20. Once again we'll be offering a FastPass to Upper Clements Parks for all who finish their SRC reading goals. This summer, we have exciting programs from the Discovery Centre, Little Ray's Reptile Zoo, Mad Science, and a Harry Potter Party.  Parents can get in on the fun this year with our "60 Things to Do in the Annapolis Valley" -- do at least 30 of the activities with your child and enter to win prizes. 

  During the summer, many students experience what is called the "Summer Slide" -- all that knowledge they learned during the school year starts to slip from their minds as they are outside playing, swimming, taking hikes, and on vacation. The Summer Reading Club is designed to be FUN, so that your children will actually want to pick up a book and read -- and keep those reading skills sharp during the summer months.  Recent research has shown that kids who read during the summer have better reading skills when they return to school than those who do not read.    Here at the library, we don't care what they read, as long as they are reading. Audiobooks count, too, so a long car trip can rack up some reading minutes; older siblings can read aloud to younger siblings; comic books count and so do magazines. Family read-alouds count for everyone! We've got lots of reading suggestions, so if you are stuck, just ask us. The TD Summer Reading website has booklists, too.

     Readers of all ages can get in on the fun this summer. There's a program for children up to age 12, including youngsters who are not yet reading, and a Teen Summer Reading Club for ages 12-18. Parents  are invited to join in by picking up a "60 Things to Do in the Annapolis Valley" booklet. We've partnered with recreation departments in the counties of Annapolis and Kings, and the Municipality of West Hants to put together a list of free or inexpensive things to do right here in the Valley (though you are welcome to do them anywhere you like).  Do at least 30 of the activities and enter to win great prizes, such as a two-night stay at Mersey River Chalets.

     Reading is its own reward, but we have some fun incentives for those who haven't discovered the sheer joy of reading. Prizes this summer include books, pencils, Oaklawn Farm Zoo passes, an iPad mini for teens, school supplies, and of course, a free FastPass from our partners at Upper Clements Parks.  

   We look forward to seeing you at the library this summer!