Remember all those kids running around the library just 60 days ago. Well, how many do you think were reading books?

The results are in. 2,621 area children started our summer reading program, with 1,783 completing it in August.

Heritage Christian had the largest percentage of students participating in our summer reading program. School administrators congratulated the school's eager readers with an assembly where the library presented the kids with a trophy.

“Congratulations Heritage Christian and all of our district winners,” LeAnn Sevy, Youth Services supervisor, said. “And remember readers make leaders.”

For each Shawnee County school district an award is presented for the highest percentage of students participating. Heritage Christian won in the private and parochial school category. 

Other winners are:
Meadows Elementary for Topeka Public Schools
Shawnee Heights Elementary for Shawnee Heights
West Indianola Elementary for Seaman
Indian Hills for Auburn Washburn   

The library’s Summerfest 2009 reading program encourages literacy skills with fun programs and awards for meeting reading goals.

“Part of the library’s strategic goals is to foster the growth and development of families and children and to ensure children are ready for and successful in school,” Sevy said. 

Our Book a Trip: Read! fall reading program is currently underway, but time is running out to participate. The last day to pick up a reading log is Sat., Oct. 31. Kids get to set their own reading goals.The grand prize for some lucky participants will be tickets to Disney on Ice at the Kansas Expocentre.

The library is already gearing up for SummerFest 2010. This year, we aim to double our participation. If you have suggestions for how we can make SummerFest more fun, compelling or convenient for you, please share them below.