Summer reading fun for everyone

Two of my favorite ways to think of reading are different, yet similar. Reading can be a form of escapism, allowing you to get away from your current reality and create a connection with the characters. Reading also allows indirect experiences that create understanding and compassion for others.

The theme for this year’s Summer Reading Program is “All Together Now,” a reminder to keep kindness, friendship and teamwork in our hearts as we work to show compassion to one another.

Cumberland County Public Library invites readers of all ages to take part in the Summer Reading Program, which began June 1 and runs through Aug. 15. Everyone will have the opportunity to win prizes (while supplies last) by tracking reading, completing fun activities, and participating in engaging story times and programs.

Children and teens may win three prizes by reading as many as 20 hours. Prize choices include slime, a fidget toy, a free book, a long-armed gorilla, a phone grip and a tote bag. Children and teen readers will also be entered into a drawing to win a $25 bookstore gift card and a multi-attractions card to Putt-Putt Fun Center.

Adults who read four books will earn a limited-edition charging cable with pouch, and they will be entered in a drawing for a one-year household membership pass to Cape Fear Botanical Garden and a $100 gift card.

Join the fun. Pick up a paper reading log at any of our eight locations or create an account for yourself on the READsquared app at http://ccplnc.readsquared.com.

The library’s reading programs are made possible through the generosity of Friends of the Cumberland County Public Library.

In addition to the Summer Reading Program, throughout the summer the library will host fun and engaging children’s programs that promote friendship, kindness and teamwork.

They include Matt Sandbank’s Shadow Factory: A Wild Goose Chase:

• 10 a.m. June 15, Hope Mills Library, 3411 Golfview Road.
• 2 p.m. June 15, East Regional Library, 4809 Clinton Road.
• 10 a.m. June 16, Spring Lake Library, 101 Laketree Blvd.
• 2 p.m. June 16, North Regional Library, 855 McArthur Road.

Grey Seal Puppets Bathtub Pirates will be at:

• 10 a.m. June 26, Cliffdale Regional Library, 6882 Cliffdale Road.
• 2 p.m. June 26, West Regional Library, 7469 Century Circle.
• 10 a.m. June 27, Headquarters Library, 300 Maiden Lane.
• 2 p.m. July 27, Bordeaux Library, 3711 Village Drive.

For details about these and other library programs, stop in, visit https://cumberlandcountync.gov/library or call 910-483-7727.

Happy reading!

Jaren Buckson is youth services manager at the Cumberland County Headquarters Library.

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