By Paige Nash

The Webster Parish Libraries kicked off the Summer Reading Program at both Minden and Springhill locations over the last week. The theme this year is “Ocean of Possibilities.”  

“We had an incredible parish-wide turnout for this year’s Summer Reading Program Kick-Off events,” said Kim Sentell, Director of Marketing/Community Liaison. “In both events combined, we had well over 1,000 in attendance, and over 400 who have registered so far.” 

The participants enjoyed tons of games spread out inside the library, including Deep Sea Fishing, Pick-up Ducks, Goldfish Bowl Toss, a book walk and a tattoo table. If you wanted to brave the heat, there was a 40-foot obstacle course outside, along with hot dogs and sno-cones.  

Upon arrival, every child received a welcome packet that was full of goodies along with a registration form and additional information about the program, including a list of events to take place at the libraries over the summer.

 “I’m excited for this year’s program,” said Savannah Jones, Director of Webster Parish Libraries. “Our Children’s Coordinator, Cassidy Duck, developed a fantastic lineup of special performers that I believe participants will really enjoy. So much hard work has gone into developing this year’s program from staff across the parish in different departments.” 

Beginning June 20- July 29, children who registered for the program will get to enjoy events over the course of the summer at all locations, including Sibley, Heflin, Doyline, Minden, Springhill, Cotton Valley and Sarepta. Events will include a magic show and magic workshop with David Leboeuf, science shows about oceans and dinosaurs, a snake sanctuary, and an array of different ocean-themed craft activities.  

To wrap things up, the summer reading program will host their Year-End Party on July 29, where participants will receive their completion certificates.  

Summer reading programs have been around since the 1890s and are a wonderful, interactive way to encourage children to continue reading during the summer months away from school. It is also a great way to teach them about the resources available at their local libraries.  

“The Webster Parish Library System has a lengthy history of providing essential services and lifelong learning-based programs to parish residents,” said Sentell. “This program is held during the summer months when students are out of school. It encourages continuous literacy advancement to ensure students’ progress going into the new school year.” 

It is not too late to sign up. You can register at any of the seven locations or on the Webster Parish Libraries mobile app.