Summer reading hits Monadnock Region

As students wrap up the school year, Monadnock Region libraries are gearing up their summer reading programs — offering kids a literacy bridge between school years. Keene Public Library's program, "Unearth a Story," kicked off at the beginning of June and runs for about 10 weeks of reading, dinosaur-themed STEAM activities, story times and Super Saturday adventures. The adventures start July 11 with a reptile expedition and wraps up Aug. 8 with a visit from Jungle Jim. Over in Peterborough, the summer reading program will kick off Monday, June 22, with a program focused on 'Plant a Seed, Read!' Programming runs through Friday, July 31. Participants will receive a bingo sheet for throughout the summer and turn it in by Friday, Sept. 4 for a coupon to the Toadstool Bookshop in Peterborough and a chance to win a prize. Staff will also hold a garden party and concert by Mr. Aaron and his band on Friday, June 26, at 6 p.m. This year, the Jaffrey Public Library's Summer Learning Program starts Saturday, June 23, and runs through Friday, Aug. 7, and the theme is "Unearth a Story" — which centers around subjects like dinosaurs, paleontology, archaeology, geology, and history. Programs include Wildlife Encounter's Cold-Blooded Creatures. Staff added new materials focused around these themes. Summer reading participants will receive bingo sheets to track their reading goals for the summer. While traditionally associated with students, all three libraries offer reading programs for all ages. More information is available at each city or town's library.