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Summer is here, and the time is right for summer reading with Rochester Hills Public Library. From June 11 to August 13, all patrons are encouraged to participate in this year's summer reading challenge, which celebrates kindness and community.
The challenge begins with an outdoor party at the library on Saturday, June 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. Patrons of all ages are invited to enjoy arts and crafts activity stations, family entertainment, food, and more! Help spread kindness and consider bringing canned goods for a food drive benefiting Neighborhood House, one of the library's community partners.
With an active RHPL card, patrons may continue using an existing account at rhpl.beanstack.org or register for the first time online. A convenient mobile app is also available from Apple or Google Play app stores. Patrons should read every day and track their progress online to earn virtual reading badges for the chance to win prizes. RHPL librarians are also available to help patrons get started.
“Summer reading is an important time of year, not just because we're doing our part to avoid the summer slide,” said Betsy Raczkowski, RHPL Head of Youth Services, “but because we get to take extra time to champion the idea of reading just for fun. Kids typically have more freedom and choice in what they read this time of year, and studies have shown this is one of the best ways to keep kids interested in reading long-term.”
Additionally, RHPL is sponsoring a community art project featuring colorful ribbons on which patrons may write a message of hope, share a dream, or make a wish. The ribbons will be tied to garden arbors located at the south and west entrances to the library. Inside the library, patrons will be greeted by colorful banners in the rotunda highlighting kindness, community, empathy, and friendship,
This summer (and always) It's cool to be kind! While reading this summer, patrons are encouraged to think of ways to help spread kindness across the community. Readers may earn virtual activity badges for every helpful activity they complete. There are several suggested activities listed at rhpl.beanstack.com. When five out of 10 activities are completed, readers will earn a raffle ticket for a chance to win even more prizes.
“RHPL prioritizes reading and lifelong learning,” said library director Juliane Morian. “Libraries support learners and readers of all ages and continually strive to help patrons find joy and discovery through reading. RHPL’s summer reading challenge is the best way to find all of the resources and activities the library offers.”
For easier sign-up, households can make one account and add readers all in one account. Parents of children participating should register themselves first and then add child readers to their accounts.
The only rule for summer reading is to read every day! Read articles, books, eBooks, audiobooks, comic books, magazines, and even cereal boxes. Walk through the library gardens and read the StoryWalk® boards. Ride a bike down the local trails and read the historical markers and signs. All forms of reading count! Everyone who participates in summer reading through August 13 will receive a free book.
Questions? Call 248-656-2900 or email help@rhpl.org.
