Sanibel library ready for summer reading
The annual Summer Reading Program Kick-off Party is back at the Sanibel Public Library.
Stop by on June 3 from 10:30 a.m. until noon for games, snacks and raffles, plus the ever-popular Guess How Many (candies in a jar). During the party, families can sign up children ages baby to teen for the program. Those unable to attend can register using Beanstack at www.sanlib.org/children.
Over the past decade, children have read “for others” during the annual program. Participants earn books for their personal collection and for patients at the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. Since the program’s inception in 2012, readers have helped to contribute more than 12,000 books to the hospital. New books are needed every year because books are given to young patients to take home. As in years past, babies through sixth grade can earn books and more. Teens can earn volunteer time when they read a book and write a book review, thus gaining needed service hours.
For readers who are traveling this summer, the library’s eShelf offers a selection of eBooks and audiobooks in several languages for all ages. It also features movies, magazines and more.
Along with the Joan Hunt Cory Children’s Fund, the Sanibel Public Library Foundation underwrites the program. The fund was established in 2008 to honor volunteer and supporter Joan Hunt Cory.
“We are appreciative to the library foundation for supporting the summer reading program,” Executive Director Margaret Mohundro said. “I think earning of books for Golisano patients is an example of the wonderful generosity of islanders and continues their giving legacy.”
The program will run from June 3 to July 29. Locals and visitors are welcome to take part.
Summer in-person programs for elementary-aged children are planned for most Tuesday afternoons, with Storytimes for younger children on Wednesday mornings. Family-friendly feature films will be shown on Monday afternoons. Some school-aged programs include visits from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife and Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, along with a mammal program with live bats, Master Storyteller Windell Campell and more.
Teens and ‘tweens — grades sixth to 12th — can look forward to Thursday evening programs, including an escape room, potluck, craft programs, and trivia.
“I am really looking forward to meeting more families and can’t wait to start the Summer Reading Program,” Children’s Librarian Megan Willis said. “Many exciting presenters are booked, including the Didgeridoo Down Under music program and the robot ‘dog’ from Lee County Sheriff’s Office.”
For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at www.sanlib.org.
Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge.
Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee.
The Sanibel Public Library is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information, call 239-472-2483 or visit www.sanlib.org.
The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.