Libraries offer summer reading fun

Looking for a summertime activity that's free and fun for the kids? Why not make reading part of your family's summer fun and learn more about the world through stories.

Children from birth through their teens are invited to participate in the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District's Summer Reading Program that begins June 10.

Children age 5 and under can join the Rubber Ducky Reading Club and choose from among 12 activities that help develop early literacy skills. Children who complete six activities will earn a rubber ducky.

Children who complete 12 activities will earn a board book and an entry into a prize drawing to win a private story time for the winning child and up to 10 of his or her friends.

Kids in kindergarten through fifth grade can join One World, Many Stories. Children choose their reading goal and when they reach a milestone, they'll earn a Book Buck to exchange at one of the Library District Foundation's used bookstores. When they reach their goal, they'll earn a certificate, a pass to the Lied Discovery Children's Museum and an entry into a prize drawing to win a birthday party at museum.

You Are Here is the program for teens in grades six and up. Teens who reach a milestone earn a Book Buck, and when they reach their goal, they'll earn a book and an entry into a drawing for a Target gift card.

You'll also find some great programs in the Summer Reading Program Guide to help you and your toddler, child or teen enjoy the summer. Many programs are perfect for the whole family, including a visit by storyteller Jim Cogan, a variety show by Fratello Marionettes, Harry Potter magic show, puppet shows, story times and much more.

Reading just 20 minutes a day can make a tremendous difference in a child's success in school and in life. When parents and children enjoy summer reading together, children develop a love of books and reading skills that last a lifetime.

Participating in summer reading helps children keep their brains active and enter school in the fall ready to learn and succeed. It also prevents "summer slide," a loss in reading and learning achievement. Summer reading helps kids improve their reading skill, increase their reading fluency and expand their vocabulary.

Building reading skills is a great way to spend your summer. Stop by any library district branch on or after June 10 to pick up a reading log and get started. The Summer Reading Program runs through Aug. 6. Prizes are available while supplies last and only until Aug. 6. For more details about the Summer Reading Program, check with your favorite branch or visit the website www.lvccld.org.