"Digging" Summer Reading at SCLS

The Summer Reading Program officially kicks off on June 17th at the Somerset County Library System (SCLS).  With a special focus on literacy skills, anyone of any age can register either in person or on-line for one of the reading programs. 

All participants will be given a reading log upon registration and the opportunity to participate in various raffles and contests as they progress through the summer. 

In the build up to Summer Reading, themed for children “Dig into Reading,” the Build-a-Bear Workshop® Foundation kindly donated 11 stuffed animals to SCLS, allowing the library to award one to a lucky child in each branch.  In addition, there will be various prizes and contests for children throughout the summer, concluding on September 4 with the end of the reading program.  Prizes this year will include a stuffed dragon and microscope for children, and a computer tablet for teens.  Children’s summer reading at SCLS is divided up into three levels:

• Read with Me Club – for preschool children to be read to;
• Summer Reading Club – for children entering grades kindergarten – 5; and
• Teen Summer Reading Club – for children entering grades 6 - 12.

 Adults will also be able to join their own Summer Reading program at each of the 10 SCLS branches, or through the on-line virtual program.  Somerville Public Library patrons may participate in the program and register at the Bridgewater Library while the Somerville branch undergoes renovations throughout the entire summer.  Adults will receive a book bag, with this year’s theme “Groundbreaking Reads” printed on the front.  Prizes, such as gift cards to popular area retailers, will be awarded to registered adult readers throughout the summer.  All participating adults will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize awarded at each branch at the conclusion of the program, during the week of September 8. 

“We keep exploring options all the time to make reading and literacy skills more exciting, especially for the kids,” noted Rebecca Crawford, Youth Services Department Head.  “Strong reading and comprehension skills are critical for children to acquire in order to help them become successful life-long learners.”

Patrons with further questions can call SCLS at (908)526-4016 or visit the website at http://www.sclsnj.org.  The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.