By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
It’s time to dig into a good book. The Great Bend Public Library’s Summer Library Program kicks off for readers of all ages on Friday. Library Outreach Manager Hannah Grippin explained the theme for this year’s program is “Unearth a Story.”
“The themes are selected for each year by a National Library Board,” she said. “So technically, the ‘Unearth a Story’ summer theme is for all libraries nationwide, but they don't have to use the theme; it's just easier.”
Friday’s program kickoff at the library from 5-6:30 p.m. will feature alpacas from Heartland Farm. Readers can also enjoy an obstacle course, a dig pit, and refreshments. Friday’s kickoff is also a good time for readers to sign up for the summer library program. Participants will receive a summer-themed library bag with minute trackers for their age group, and possibly other goodies.
“All ages can participate in their age category to compete for prizes,” Grippin said. “Just read and track your minutes. Minutes for children up through fifth grade must be turned in by July 17, and teens and adults have until July 31. July 17 is also the deadline for our library-wide reading goal of 500,000 minutes. With everyone signed up for the reading program, if we can collectively get to 500,000 minutes by the 17th, everyone will ‘unearth a party.’”
The end-of-summer party would include root beer floats and a dinosaur-themed movie on July 24.
Program participants who check out items from the Great Bend Public Library will also be entered into a weekly check-out contest, with winners in each age category drawn every Monday throughout the program. Entries for other giveaways will be based on the minute trackers for readers to track their activities.
Those unable to attend Friday’s kickoff party can still stop by the library during business hours and register to participate in the summer library program.