Summer at the Bethlehem Area Public Library will be out of this world, with the theme of A Universe of Stories for its SummerQuest program (June 8-August 17). SummerQuest is a new twist on the traditional Summer Reading Program: It still involves reading, but also includes learning (and family) activities that range from taking a nature walk to stargazing to checking out a DVD for a movie night. In addition, there is an adult version of SummerQuest.
Youth Program: Toddlers through teens can sign up with their library cards. At signup, they get a reading/activity log that lets them track their progress and earn prizes as they go. If a child would rather just read, there’s a read-only option. No matter how they complete the activities, kids also earn chances for bigger prizes. Past drawing prizes have included tickets to SkyZone, the DaVinci Center, and the IronPigs; gift cards and free pizza; and—for the littlest readers—fun toy packs and sets.
Adult Program: SummerQuest isn’t just for kids: Adults can join in by reading or listening to books and writing short reviews. When they submit the reviews, they’re entered for weekly prizes from local restaurants, shops, museums and performance centers.
Special events: Before you hear the first “I’m bored!” of Summer, check out our youth events. Family Fun Nights feature outside performers or activities for the whole family. For a doggone good time, the Read to Dogs program lets kids read a story to trained therapy dogs. Other Summer highlights include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) activities, book-themed activities, and programs for teens by teens.
Sign up at the Main Library, the South Side Branch, or the Bookmobile any time between June 8 and August 17. To participate, we ask that you have a current, valid library card. (Children entering kindergarten and above should have their own cards; parents reading to toddlers can use their adult cards.) If you don’t have a card, just stop in to set one up. Bring ID with your current address, fill out a short form, and we’ll set up a card on the spot.
IT’S ALL FREE! SummerQuest is just one part of what you can find at the library. There are computers for games and internet access; books, movies, video games, music CDs, and toys to check out and take home — plus downloadable items for remote access. And it’s all free. All you need is a library card.
For more information