Hillsborough County Public Library is offering four summer reading programs — one to fit just about everyone in your family.
— Children (Pre-K, K-5th grades): The “Dream Big, READ!” program is aimed at preschool and elementary school children, with fun rewards and exciting programs. This year’s theme encourages children to imagine a world where dreams always come true.
— Teens (students entering grades 6-12): Teens who participate in the 2012 “Own the Night” Summer Reading program can earn raffle tickets throughout the program for a chance to win a iPod. Programs and activities geared specifically to teens will take place throughout the summer, including a Book Flip, which is a scavenger hunt that lasts throughout the summer. In the Book Flip, copies of Nightshade by Andrea Cremer and Skyship Academy: The Pearl Wars by Nick James will be hidden. Teens must visit the library, hunt for the book using clues posted on the teen blog, read it and then hide it again for someone else to find.
— Adults: Adults are encouraged to read night-related books that correspond with this year’s theme, “Between the Covers.” Libraries will offer a number of programs focused on helping you relax and enjoy. Program topics will cover everything from how to cook a budget-friendly dinner and Tai Chi to visiting our national parks and trivia. Those who complete their reading goals will be eligible for prizes and entered to win an Amazon Kindle.
— Reading With the Rays: Get your game card at your library. Your child can choose his favorite books or select a favorite section of the Tampa Bay Times to read over the summer. As your child reads, track their hours by rounding the bases. When enough reading hours have been logged to get on first base, initial your child’s card and bring it to your library. The librarian will initial the card and give your child their reading reward. Round the bases by reading a total of 24 hours this summer and receive a ticket to a Rays game.
Summer Reading programs in Hillsborough County kicks-off on June 9, 2012 and run through the first week of August. Along with reading, the Libraries are also offering tons of special programs your whole family can enjoy all summer long. Here’s just a sampling of the amazing performances coming to the Library:
— Fritzy Brothers One-Man Circus
— Storytelling With Windell Campbell
— Shana Banana bedtime party
— Silly Sam The Music Man
— Magician Greg Gaulden (Hip Hop Magic & Circus Magic)
— The Tricky Dogs Show
— Razzmatazz Entertainment
— Storyteller Gladys Varga
— Bilingual Magic Show: Cesar Domico
… and much, much more!
In fact, there are so many amazing programs planned, that we can’t begin to post them all on this blog, so be sure to visit the Hillsborough County Public Library program calendar to see which ones you and your kids will be attending this summer!
How to Get Started:
Visit your Library information desk to pick up your official 2012 Summer Reading Logs/Rays Game Card, track your reading progress throughout the summer, and earn fun rewards! Or, if you prefer, you can join in a kick-off party and get your reading logs during the event. These special events are also an excellent way to learn all about the programming taking place around the county as part of the Summer Reading 2012 program.
Below is a list of Summer Reading Kick-Off events taking place around Hillsborough County:
Circus Dreams Summer Reading Extravaganza
Time: 2 p.m.
Date: Saturday, June 9, 2012
Location: John F. Germany Public Library (Children’s Area-1 West)
Cost: FREE
Info: (813) 273-3652; Website
What’s Doing?
Find out what Summer Reading is all about, while gathering goodies, playing games, and enjoying entertainment at this grand kick-off party.
Address:
John F. Germany Public Library
900 North Ashley Drive
Tampa, FL 33602
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Summer Reading Kick-Off Event
Time: 3-4 p.m.
Date: Thursday, June 14, 2012
Location: Seffner-Mango Branch Library (Community Room)
Cost: FREE
Info: (813) 273-3652; Website
What’s Doing?
Join in games, crafts and more as the Library begins their celebration of the 2011 Summer Library Reading program “Dream Big.” Hear about our exciting summer performers and programs, and learn about reading incentives and suggested reading lists for children.
Address:
Seffner-Mango Branch Library
410 North Kingsway Road
Seffner, FL 33584
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FAMILY
1960s Summer Reading Kick-off Party
Time: 4-5 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Location: Seminole Heights Branch Library (Community Room)
Cost: FREE
Info: (813) 273-3652; Website
What’s Doing?
Hang ten and catch a wave to the 1960s! Learn about the bands, games, and movies that people enjoyed back in the days of tie-dye, Woodstock, Motown and more. Pick-up your summer reading brochures here! Refreshments will be provided. Refreshments will be provided.
Address:
Seminole Heights Branch Library
4711 Central Avenue
Tampa, FL 33603
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Reading with the Rays Kick-Off
Time: 12 p.m.
Date: Friday, June 29, 2012
Location: John F. Germany Public Library (Children’s Area)
Cost: FREE
Info: (813) 273-3652; Website
What’s Doing?
Meet Rays baseball player Matt Joyce as he reads stories to the kids during this special event just for children age 5-12. Learn how to read your way to the ballpark this summer. During the event, pick up a Game Card and start earning cool Rays prizes, including a FREE ticket to a Rays game.
NOTE: No autographs.
Address:
John F. Germany Public Library
900 North Ashley Drive
Tampa, FL 33602
