Reading is, in many ways, a timeless and priceless summertime activity. It’s one that takes the devoted reader on vacations of the mind as they explore new worlds of wonder in the pages of their favorite books. And this summer, the young people of Hernando County will come ‘all together’ for the ultimate seasonal reading program.
Summer Reading 2023: All Together Now, hosted by the Hernando County Public Library System, is kicking off this week via parties celebrated on June 7 at the East Hernando branch at 10:30 am, on June 7 at the West Hernando Branch at 10:30 am, on June 9 at the Brooksville/Main branch at 10:30 am and finally on June 9 at the Spring Hill branch at 10:30 am. Registration is required for this free program; visit https://hernandocounty.librarycalendar.com/ to register.
“This summer, the theme for the Hernando County Public Library’s summer reading program is ‘All Together Now,’” said Justin King, youth services librarian of the library system. “Using this theme, the Library will provide numerous free programs for youth all throughout Hernando County.”
This vibrant, literacy-centered program centers around storytelling sessions, educational activities and entertainment acts. “Our Family Storytime programs, which will be presented in the mornings on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays at alternating branches will be all about the continents of the world,” said King. “Each program will feature information, stories, and a craft about one of the seven continents. Participants will be able to create their own passport and get it stamped at each program. Once they get five different stamps, they will earn a little prize.”
Teens and tweens will also be invited to come ‘all together now’ throughout the summer reading sessions. “There will also be programs for tweens and teens,” said King. “Examples of this include friendship jewelry, candy sushi, canvas bag decorating and animal origami for tweens, and an international snack taste test, pop art donut painting and board game nights for teens.”
Live entertainment will feature a vivid myriad of musical, dramatic and comedic acts meant to engage young minds. “In addition, we will be featuring several different special performers throughout the summer. These include a comedy magic show, the ‘Moogician’ and Spheres Bubble Show among others,” said King. “Our first performer on June 12th at the West Hernando Branch, is the “Didgeridoo Down Under.” The didgeridoo show presented by Darren Liebman is an energetic fusion of Australian music, comedy, character building, storytelling and audience participation. Kids will learn about Aussie animals, culture, unity and more… all while moving and grooving to the pulsing rhythms of the didgeridoo. It’s interactive, educational, motivational and super fun for all ages!”
And, once again this year, participating kids will be invited to read with the Rays! “We also are offering reading with the Rays again,” said King. “Children can come to the library to collect their game cards and start reading. They earn prizes for the number of hours they read, and if they reach 24 hours, they can get a voucher good for two free tickets to a Rays home game!”
As kids come all together to read and learn, they’ll be having a whole lot of summertime fun. “All of our programs are designed to offer fun, free and educational programs in a safe space while the students are out of school over the summer,” said King.
Library Services Director of Hernando County Public Library System, Cindy Loftis-Culp, agreed. She shared, “We look forward to seeing all of the smiling faces coming into the programs each week!”
