Kick off summer at Baldwin Library

Readers of all ages are invited to participate in Birmingham Baldwin Library's annual Summer Reading Program, which kicks off on Friday, June 14, from 1-4 p.m., with an open house celebrating the theme, “A Universe of Stories.”

Throughout the summer, the library will offer special programs, concerts, lectures, crafts and other fun activities to promote the enjoyment of reading a good book. Visitors will have the opportunity to sign up for the program at the open house, participate in games, make crafts and lots more. For those unable to attend the open house, “Get Started” packets will be available at the library with sign up continuing throughout the summer. Head to baldwinlib.org/summer for information and to get started.

For students who are ages 11 tto 14, Baldwin also offers a summer volunteer program called the Baldwin Boosters. Participants can earn community service hours by helping out behind the scenes or by assisting staff during the summer youth programs. Applications are available at www.baldwinlib.org/volunteer. Participants must attend an informational session on Saturday, June 8 at 2 p.m.

“While school is out for the summer there is no better place to be inspired and to stay in the learning mode than at the local public library,” said Stephanie Klimmek, head of Youth Services.

Studies show that students who do not read during the summer can experience “summer set-back” and may return to school less ready for the new school year than when they began their summer break. “If you don’t do it already, consider making the Baldwin Library one of your routine places to visit this summer,” said Klimmek.

2019 Summer Reading program sponsors include the Friends of the Baldwin Public Library, Emagine Entertainment, Zap Zone, and Book Beat.