Library challenges patrons with 100 days of summer reading

ROCHESTER — In honor of its 100th anniversary, the Rochester Hills Public Library is challenging community members to read for 100 days this summer.

The library opened registration for its summer reading program earlier than ever before, on May 3, but the official kickoff event will be held noon-2 p.m. June 8 at the library. Patrons can visit a nonprofit fair in the multipurpose room to learn more about services and volunteer opportunities in the community, play old-timey games courtesy of the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, and enjoy sweet treats and surprise giveaways.

The only rule for summer reading is to read every day — whether it’s an article, a book, an e-book, an audiobook, a graphic novel, a magazine or even a cereal box — and track the progress online to earn virtual reading badges for the chance to win prizes. Reading badges earn entries for the end-of-summer grand prize drawing. For every activity badge earned, readers can place a sticker on the sign to show off their summer reading skills.

“We, basically, encourage people to read every day during the summer — that allows each individual family to kind of set their own goals,” said Betsy Raczkowski, the head of communications and community engagement.

The summer reading program allows patrons to enjoy books of their choice, at their own pace, and it also helps youth maintain their reading levels.

“We really want to stress the idea of reading for fun and reading for entertainment and enjoyment to keep that interest alive,” Raczkowski added.

Reading and lifelong learning are priorities at the library, according to Library Director Juliane Morian.

“The library’s strategic plan highlights and supports learners of all ages, along with nurturing young minds and helping patrons find joy and discovery at the library. Summer reading is a perfect time to discover all the library has to offer, inside and out,” she said in a statement.

To register for summer reading, visit rhpl.beanstack.org or download the Beanstack app and sign up using an active library card. Households can make one account and add readers all in one spot. Library staff encourage parents of children participating to register themselves first and then add readers to their accounts.

Upon signing up, all participants are also eligible for a free “Spread Your Library Love” lawn sign and stickers pack, which, if displayed at their residence, could earn them a prize from the library’s prize patrol.

“There are still a lot of people who think the summer reading program is just for kids, but we have great participation from adults. For parents, it’s important to model reading for their children, but for adults, who maybe don’t have children, it’s also a really nice way to expand your horizons and continue learning, even when you’re not in school,” said Mary Davis, the head of adult services.

In addition to being eligible for the grand prizes, everyone who participates in the library’s summer reading challenge through Aug. 10 will also receive a free book.

The Rochester Hills Public Library is located at 500 Olde Towne Road in downtown Rochester. For more information, call (248) 656-2900, visit www.rhpl.org or email help@rhpl.org.