Summer Reading Programs

The Lark Branch Library is located in McAllen, Texas and is one of three libraries.  The theme for the summer is "Now Showing @ Your Library".  The summer reading program was geared for both children and teens.  Students are encouraged to read, as well as participate in calendar activities and events. 

            Children Pre-K – 5^th grades were encouraged to enroll in the reading program, as many as 1000 enrolled.  The total number of children that completed their reading logs was 500.  The participants in the program were rewarded for the amount of books they read.  After 5 books you received a goodie bag, 10 books a coin purse necklace, 15 books a water bottle and 20 books food certificate with prize.  The 500 children that met their goal were invited to the summer reading carnival held at the Palm View Branch Library on July 18. 2009.  Students were treated to carnival booths, games, food and entertainment. The children’s department was decorated with the theme for the summer with a popcorn display, book display, movie scene registration area and movie reels hanging from the ceiling.  The library provided a calendar of events with activities such as story time, special programs (butterflies, valley nature center, Dora & Diego) and crafts.  

            The teen 6^th – 12^th grades were encouraged to read books, manga and graphic novels during the summer.  The important thing was that they enjoy whatever they read.  Teens were required to record their books on a title log providing title, date completed and their initials.  Teens were also asked to provide a one paragraph summary about the book they completed.  After reading 20 books the students may turn in their title log and receive an invitation to the teen summer reading program party.  The party was invitation only and was held at Fantasyland Skating Center July 19, 2009.  Teens were also encouraged to participate in book discussions and programs with a teen guide brochure. Programs held for teens at the Lark branch were food fear factor, upcycling, herbalist apprentice, book & bites, spotlight on Twilight and useless trivia contest.  The teen guide gave time and dates for programs at all three libraries making it convenient for teens to attend. 

       Tween’s or students 3^rd grade and up were also invited to participate in some programs held on Saturday’s from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Lark branch provided some fun programs and activities for the in between students. Students were able to participate in: fear factor (gross challenges), face painting (lesson), Nancy Drew & Hardy Boys (solve a mystery), design your own school supplies, and magic workshop.  

Overall I was pleased with the amount of time and dedication the McAllen libraries set forth in their summer program to encourage students not only to read but to participate in learning activities.