Summer Reading Program in full swing at Center Library

By Janice Sullivan, DFMWR Marketing DirectorJune 24, 2010

FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- The Summer Reading Program at the Center Library provides military children a way to inspire their imaginations.

Parents can still register their children for the program, according to Les Waltman, a librarian.

Participants must be between ages 5 (leaving kindergarten) and 12 (leaving sixth grade).

More than 100 children are currently registered, he said.

"As of 1982, the Center Library has offered a Summer Reading Program every year except 1991. It is the most popular and well-attended program we offer during the year," Waltman said. "The Summer Reading Program provides a structured reading program to occupy (children's) time and to encourage their imagination and intellect."

The Summer Reading Program uses reading milestones for the children based on their completed grade level, he said. As they reach milestones, they can come into the library, present their reading logs and receive a prize. There are 10 milestones.

An awards ceremony July 9 recognizes the best readers for each grade.

Center Library staff offers weekly craft activities during the summer reading program, according to Jamie Mize, library technician, which allows children to come in and share their creative sides while mingling with other children.

"The summer reading program is a great opportunity to inspire children to continue reading even after school has let out for the summer," she said. "Our goal is to make reading fun for kids and keep them interested."

Valid military identification cards are required to use the Center Library. Department of Defense civilians are also authorized to use the facility.

For more details on the Summer Reading Program, an Exceptional Family Member Program-friendly event, call 255-3695. For a complete list of Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation activities, visit ftruckermwr.com or call 255-2292.