Summer library programs strengthen reading skills
Karen Peterson photo
Library board members and volunteers discuss the summer reading program. From left are Dori Knoll, Jay Kirby, Andrea Brister and Susan Black.
Karen Peterson photo
The Jocko Valley Library has an extensive children’s section, plus a wide variety of selections for adults.
Karen Peterson photo
Karen Peterson photo
Hey savvy news reader! Thanks for choosing local.
You are now reading
1 of 3 free articles.
ARLEE – It’s a trip without leaving home.
“You can go anywhere with a book. When kids become good readers, reading becomes like a movie in their heads,” said Susan Black, director of the Jocko Valley Library and retired librarian from the Arlee School District.
But it takes practice to become a good reader. Libraries across the valley are developing free summer reading programs to give kids an opportunity to maintain their reading skills while school is out, and the Jocko Valley Library’s program is just starting for kids ages pre-k to sixth grade. Older kids can participate by volunteering. The event happens every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and goes until the first week in August.
Every hero has a story is the theme for this year’s summer reading program. Black explained that many libraries across Montana are participating in the same hero-based reading program. Books are paired with an activity and craft, so kids can explore a story’s message.
And there are prizes for logging reading time, including gift certificates from local businesses. A snack is also provided, but kids shouldn’t be too hungry. They can go to the Arlee school’s free morning breakfast before the event and back to school for a free lunch afterward.
“We will have healthy snacks like cheese sticks and crackers,” said Dori Knoll, summer reading program coordinator.
Funding for the reading program was provided by the Community Development Corporation’s Chocolate Lover’s Festival and other donations. Arlee isn’t considered an incorporated town so the library doesn’t receive state funding, which means it’s funded by donations.
“We are doing a lot for the community with the money we have,” said Andrea Brister, board secretary.
The Jocko Valley Library started in 1974 and moved to several locations before making the Brown Building its current home. The library is located in the basement portion of the building, which is nice and cool on hot summer days.
“We all believe in this library,” library boardmember Jay Kirby said.
The book collection has grown over the years with a wide selection from local authors and a vast children’s section. Library cards are free. The library also provides free Internet access. And they could always use volunteers for the library and the summer reading program.
“Volunteers are welcome - if someone wants to come down and be a librarian even for a day,” Black said.
