Exploring a universe of summer reading

Callaway County Public Library children's librarian Jerilyn Hahn stands by the informational table on the various summer reading programs. This theme for Daniel Boone Regional Library's summer reading program is "a universe of stories."
Callaway County Public Library children's librarian Jerilyn Hahn stands by the informational table on the various summer reading programs. This theme for Daniel Boone Regional Library's summer reading program is "a universe of stories."

The summer reading program is in full swing at the Daniel Boone Regional Library with a number of programs for readers of all ages.

Having kicked off May 22, this summer's theme is "a universe of stories," and with there not being a set reading list for any of the programs, readers have the opportunity to explore a universe of literature on their own.

"We have a few lists of book suggestions, but we wanted to keep it as open-ended as possible," DBRL children's librarian Jerilyn Hahn said.

This summer's reading program is available to four different age groups: ages 5 and younger, 5-12, 12-18, and 18 and older for adult readers. Each program offers an incentive upon completion that varies per age group.

"The main difference we offer this year is the adult group will earn a bookbag upon completion (of the program) while the other age groups will earn a free book," Hahn explained.

The requirements to complete the program vary by age. Children ages 5 and younger have 30 activities to complete with the help of their parents; ages 5-12 must read 15 hours and complete 10 activities; teens have 15 hours of reading, three book reviews and seven activities to complete; and adults have to read three books, complete seven activities and share three book reviews.

Additionally, those who complete their summer reading program will have their name entered into a drawing. Those in the children's programs can win a set of books. The teens can win an Amazon Kindle, and adults can win a telescope. There is also a night photography contest for teens through July 19.

While the summer reading programs end Aug. 4, participants have until July 19 to sign up as each program requires at least two weeks of reading. Prizes and drawings will not begin until after July 1.

"We don't want our readers to just join the program and complete everything as fast as possible. Even if you finish all of the required reading in a week, we'll ask that you keep reading for the remainder of the program," Hahn said.