Library’s summer reading program to begin May 31

In the News

MARYVILLE, Mo.—The Maryville Public Library will be hosting its annual summer reading program for kids beginning May 31 and running through July 30.

The reading program is aimed at preventing the “summer slide,” which is the loss of reading skills over the summer months when kids are out of school.

Last year, the program drew over 350 toddlers, kids, and teens. This year, the library will incorporate a variety of activities and reading challenges to keep kids engaged in learning.

“Reading is like any other form of exercise; you only need to do a little on a very regular basis in order to start gaining the benefits,” said Stephanie Patterson, library director. “In fact, we’re supplementing this year’s reading program with physical fitness, supplied by Maryville Parks and Recreation, to promote a balanced approach to keeping your mind and body healthy.”

Maryville Parks and Recreation staff will lead the library’s “Fitness Fridays,” held each week at 9:45 a.m.

Hy-Vee will hold two hands-on kids cooking workshops at the library throughout the summer, and an optional Math Challenge will be offered to help parents keep their kids’ math skills strong.

Incentives provided by the Maryville Pride Lions Club will be offered every two weeks to keep kids engaged in short term reading goals, and incentives will also be provided for parents who read to their toddlers or newborns.

K-4 Program Director Howard Dumke will be at the library at least once a week to help parents and kids choose books appropriate for their reading level.

For kids ages 12 and older, Young Adult Librarian Kelsey Noble has a unique blend of reading incentives and fun activities planned.

“Teens are at an age where reading has taken a back seat to school, jobs, and extracurricular activities,” Noble said. “My aim is to remind them to take a break during the summer and pick up a book that they want to read.”

Summer events for teens will include a Nerf Gun fight, a Harry Potter party and movie, a popcorn bar, and a pizza night.

A mid-summer campfire and s’mores event is to be scheduled at the College Park Pavilion at Northwest Missouri State University, followed by a pool party in late July.

The library’s usual Minecraft Club and Lego Club sessions will continue throughout the summer as well.

The program is open to any child with a library card, which is free for residents living within Maryville city limits. Patrons living outside of Maryville can obtain a card for $38 per year or $15 per month.

Nodaway County families who are food-stamp eligible can get their non-resident card paid for by the Friends of the Maryville Public Library.

For more information about the summer reading program, contact Kelsey Noble at 660-582-5281.