Summer reading program
aims to make a splash
PRESQUE ISLE — The Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library is celebrating the joys of summer reading through programming for children, tweens and teens. While many things remain familiar, there are also some exciting new additions this year, including a creative writing workshop and virtual author visit. Children ages 13 and under can sign up now to receive a reading log to keep track of all of their summer reading. As they reach reading goals, participants will receive prizes and incentives, including $10 to jump-start a TD Bank savings account, a free pizza from Pizza Hut and vouchers to attend a Portland Sea Dogs game! Teens can sign up for our Summer Reading Challenge to complete six special reading goals and enter for a chance to win gift certificates from Houlton Farms Dairy and Mr. Paperback.
To tie in with this year’s theme, Make a Splash!, weekly presentations led by community members will be held on Wednesdays from June 30-July 28, covering topics such as weather, fishing, dancing and more. Teens can learn the art of creative writing during a free summer workshop led by local author Wendy Koenig on Thursdays from June 17-July 15. Children and teens can attend weekly movie matinees showcasing films based on popular books or take part in regular Tween and Teen Book Club meetings. For younger children, Saturday Story Times will be held starting July 3 at noon, offering lively story readings and activities.
Children and tweens will also have the opportunity to meet Maine author Tim Caverly, author of ‘Allagash Tails’ and ‘An Allagash Haunting: The Story of Emile Camile,’ on Tuesday, June 15, at 11 a.m. Teens and young adults will have a virtual visit with Cinda Williams Chima, author of the popular Heir series, on Thursday, July 22, to discuss her works and how to write within the fantasy genre. This unique experience is funded through the Maine Humanities Council and will utilize Skype, an online video conferencing service.
The Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library provides access to a collection of nearly 60,000 items, including books, DVDs, magazines and audio resources. Patrons also have free access to 11 public access computers and Wi-Fi access throughout the building. The library’s Wii video gaming system and a selection of board games are also available for use during normal business hours. For more information on the library’s summer programming, please contact Dianna Leighton at 764-2571.
