Summer Reading Kick-Off
Summer Reading in Bethlehem
Kick-Off with Pete the Cat, a StoryWalk®, and Book Sale
On Saturday, June 26th 11am-1pm Bethlehem Public Library kicks off their summer reading program with the grand opening of their StoryWalk® and a visit by Pete the Cat. The annual weeklong book sale begins as well.
The Friends of Bethlehem Public Library (FOBPL) have been working all winter to build the StoryWalk® behind the library. Ross Veilleux designed and built the podiums over several months. FOBPL collaborated with the Bethlehem Odd Fellows, Bethlehem Trails Association and Bethlehem Snowmobile Club to decide the path and place the podiums. “Many local people and organizations helped with this project,” said Library Director, Laura Clerkin. “It is truly a town effort. We’re very happy to debut the StoryWalk for our kick-off.”
Bethlehem’s StoryWalk® is a generous gift from FOBPL. Benefits of StoryWalks® include time outdoors in nature, exercise, literacy, and family time. The library will be responsible for selecting and installing the books. This summer, there will be three books rotating on the StoryWalk®.
Also at the kick-off will be an appearance by Pete the Cat, the children’s book character created by James and Kimberly Dean. The groovy blue cat will be at the library to pose for photos with attendees.
Staff will be available to register patrons for the summer reading program. The library has revamped their summer program this year. New this year, all ages will have a bingo card, one for younger patrons, and a different bingo card for older children and adults. Also new, a family activity sheet, which changes every two weeks. Bingo squares and family activities earn tickets. Participants then visit the Library’s Super Summer Store to redeem tickets for an assortment of prizes, including new books, movie tickets, pool passes, gift cards, food, and TicketMaster events.
Putter’s Pub will be at the library, serving ice cream during the event. Every patron who signs up for the summer reading program that day will receive a free ice cream cone.
The Library’s annual book sale begins Saturday 9am-3pm. It then continues through July 3rd in the library’s community room. The sale has a varied selection of books, DVDs, and audio books for all ages.
The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Storywalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
The Bethlehem Public Library serves the residents of Bethlehem, NH. For more information, go to www.bethlehemlibrary.org, their Facebook or Instagram page. All Library programs are free and open to the public.
