The Eckville Library wrapped up their summer reading program with a contest, games and treats.
The program, which ran for six weeks, encouraged children to continue reading throughout the summer while also learning a bit more about the country they call home.
The library themed this year’s program around the Canada 150 celebration, and the kids learned a little bit about each part of the country.
“I think they learned things about Canada they didn’t know before, like what an inuksuk is,” explained Carol Griner, library manager.
Griner said the children learned a little bit about each part of the country, looking at each province over the summer.
With each new place the children participated in different activities that are symbolic of that area including a potato sack race, an eastern jig and dog sled races.
The children also built a items as they learned about the provinces. While learning about inuksuks, they built their own version out of vegetables and fruit.
“It has been an absolutely wonderful summer. I think the kids have learned a lot about Canada and it’s many cultures,” said Griner.
Of course the program is also meant to encourage the children to read even though they are not in school.
At the final day of the program, on Aug. 17, the children present - about nine kids - read a total of 264.
One participant read 16 books alone.
“It is absolutely amazing to see. It is really encouraging to see how many books they have read over the summer,” said Griner.
There was roughly 30 participants signed up for the program, though they didn’t all come at once.
Griner says the average number of participants was 12 each week.
“I think that is a good number to have. It gave us the time to work with them and play with them,” said Griner. “I think they appreciated the one on one quality, as well.”
Part of the program was the building of a large milk jug igloo.
It took just about the entire summer to put together, due to problems with the weather.
Originally, the igloo was being out together outside. Due to a few windstorms knocking the structure over, the igloo was brought indoors.
Once inside, safely tucked into the children’s section, the igloo took about a day and a half to construct.
“We tried to keep it outside, but it just wasn’t working.”
Griner says the children have really enjoyed having the igloo to play and read in.
Though they did find the igloo couldn’t be completely closed in as it became too hot inside it.
“The kids have loved to go in and play. There has been a lot of people interested in coming in to see it,” Griner said.
The plan is to have to igloo in place in the children’s section for another month or so before being taken down.
Overall the summer reading program was a fun and educational way for the children to spend their summer. Each one present on the last day said they enjoyed their time at the library.
Griner said the program wouldn’t have been possible without the cooperation of the community’s parents or the youth leaders who volunteered t help.
“I want to say thank you to everyone who helped, we had a great summer.”
