Looking for something fun to do this Summer? Sign up for the Aurora Public Library District’s (APLD) “Reading Colors Your World” Summer Reading Adventure to keep your mind engaged with adventurous activities and earn a prize and book! (APLD has a Spanish Summer Reading Adventure page, too.
The Summer reading adventure started June 1 and will run through July 31. This year’s theme, Reading Colors Your World, celebrates creativity, diversity, and our colorful world.
You can sign up for the Summer reading adventure and log your activities through APLD’s Summer Reading Adventure Beanstack webpage or through the Beanstack app, available in the App Store and Google Play. APLD can print Summer reading adventure logs upon request too.
What does a Summer reading adventure provide? “Traditionally, during the Summer, there can be a learning loss of academic skills, including reading,” said Dana Russell, senior manager of Children’s services at APLD. “This Summer slide can result in a loss of up to two months of learning by the time children return to school in the Fall. There is the expectation that the loss will be even larger this year with traditional learning being so interrupted during the pandemic. The public library can provide a literacy-rich environment with access to all kinds of reading and learning opportunities. Plus, it is fun!” Russell said.
Summer reading adventure activities are not limited to just the fun of reading: You can simply use your library card, listen to music or even dress up in a colorful outfit, take a photo and hashtag us at #APLibraryIL! Pick and choose which activities or activity you’d like to complete; they can be repeated! When asked about the importance of having a Summer reading adventure that includes activities in addition to reading, Russell replied, “Having an activities based Summer reading program is more inclusive as it provides those who may be more reluctant readers or those who have schedules that limit their reading time an opportunity to participate in the program and the fun.” For a full list of activities, those interested can visit the APLD Summer Reading Adventure webpage.
After logging and completing 10 activities, you’ll receive a prize, and after 20 activities, participants will receive a book. While supplies last, coupons from local businesses will be given out to participants who complete the program as well. Prizes can be picked up at any APLD library location or through our drive-thru service (Santori Library) or curbside pick up service (Eola Road Branch and West Branch).
To start the 2021 Summer reading adventure, we will be host to a fun-filled kickoff party in the Santori Library parking lot from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 5. There’s something for the whole family:
• Enjoy the live, vibrant, music of tropical steel drums.
• Watch as Smarty Pants amazes the crowd with huge rainbow balloon twist creations in his award-winning show!
• Create cool crafts for all ages!
• Meet with local organizations who are enthusiastic literacy supporters.
Have a wonderful, colorful, Summer full of reading and adventures, Aurora!