The Tri-Town Libraries united for Summer Reading, and all three libraries had very successful programs. The theme for Summer Reading was, “All Together Now!” and invited the members of all of the Tri-Town communities to attend any event at any Tri-Town library.

Summer Reading began on June 5, and ended on Aug. 12 when the reading logs were due. But before the reading logs had to be handed in, there was one last hurrah with an End of Summer Reading Roller Skating Party at Trout Pond Park on August 5.

The Hughesville Area Public Library kicked off Summer Reading with an outdoor concert by the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra. Library Director Penny Johnson said, “The library is still buzzing with excitement about the program. The community was thrilled to have such a high-level cultural event come to their community. It brought something to the community that many have never had the opportunity to experience.” She further commented that the concert drew an estimated 350 people, and they gave away 95 books to the children who attended.

The Muncy Public Library blended learning and fun with a variety of programs. There were STEM activities that allowed patrons to create nature-themed crafts such as birdhouses and bug shelters. They held an outdoor fossil hunting activity, and taught about local plants and trees. They also had a Let’s Be Silly Together Party. “Our staff created an afternoon of goofy fun. There were tongue twisters, a dress up corner, a photo booth, jokes, silly races, crafts, and a Silly Sundae Social sponsored by Downtown Muncy Inc.,” said Breneisen.

Amber Adams, the Director of the Montgomery Area Public Library commented on their activities by saying, “Montgomery’s Fire Truck event was by far our most popular. It was rewarding seeing families from Muncy, Montgomery, and Hughesville come together to play outside, and learn a little about our library on their first visit. As always, our vault was a hit. I also enjoyed visiting Nature CAMP. I read them stories and we did a craft centered around plants and animals. The children also enjoyed painting rocks to become part of a giant community rock snake for Montgomery’s part. They want to see how long they can make it!”

While Summer Learning programs traditionally reward those who have read the greatest number of books, the Tri-Town libraries decided to try a different approach that allowed children to bring their reading logs to the library each week and pick out a prize. Book-themed BINGO cards were available for older readers at Muncy and Montgomery, and participants received prizes. At Hughesville, teens were allowed to participate in the children’s program but chose teen prizes. The Hughesville library also formed a Dungeons and Dragons group for teens that they plan to continue during the school year.

The Summer Reading program was fulfilling for the directors. When asked what she felt was the most rewarding part of the program, Breneisen commented, “Seeing children get excited about learning, and seeing all the people who come into the library to beat the summer heat and just relax.”

Johnson said, “The most rewarding aspect of the Summer Reading program was seeing so many books leave in the hands of young and old alike.”

“It’s rewarding to see a child’s eyes light up and hear their excitement about coming to the library. We love knowing we are creating an environment for a lifelong love of learning. We make a difference in the world with kindness and giving, and that spreads. Person to person, we like to pass it on,” Adams said.