By Linda Chuss

The summer reading program at the Taft Public Library stands out for its participants and unique activities. It offers incentives for reading, not just for children on school vacation but for adults too. Children’s Librarian Tara Windsor added the adult component in 2016. Last year, over 200 people registered, the majority being adults. Participation in the program is free for all residents who register.

Activities include “Read Around Town,” where a special guest reads stories to children at places like the Southwick Zoo and the police station. Then there are fun contests like the popular cookie-stacking event and the rubber duckie race which is new this year.

“Libraries have evolved beyond just books,” said Windsor. “We see ours as a community center for people to gather. The programs bring people together.”

While the entertainment aspect may be a draw, participants also learn. As many can attest, stacking Oreos isn’t as easy as expected, given the event is held outdoors and the cream can get warm, expand and melt causing stacks to shift and topple. Friendly rivalries at the annual cardboard boat race drive residents and town department colleagues to pore over online articles about constructing and piloting the vessels they will ride in. The worm race, started by Library Director Andrew Jenrich, has even the squeamish intensely observing their own contestants as they name the worms and watch them advance to the finish line.

Weekly incentives are available for anyone who logs at least three hours of reading. 

“All materials count, from newspapers and cookbooks to books read aloud,” said Windsor. “Children up to Grade 4 can pick from the prize chest. Students in Grades 5 to 12 earn a gift card to places like the Muffin House. Adults can enter a weekly raffle drawing. Anyone completing 21 or more hours by August 11 can enter the end-of-summer drawing. As added incentive, Facebook followers can post about what they or their children are reading for a chance to win a weekly gift card to JJ’s Ice Cream. Grateful acknowledgement goes to the Friends of the Library for their support.”

Gretchen Tatch shared about her child’s experience. “Our 8-year-old has always enjoyed being read to and loves going to our library. The summer reading program adds another level of excitement! By keeping track, she can see her time add up. An added bonus is picking her prize for each badge she earns.”

To register or more information, including the current event calendar, visit the Taft Public Library at 29 North Avenue or at www.taftpubliclibrary.org.