Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
PHOTO: Children take part in the Lewiston Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. (Submitted photo)
LEWISTON – A little girl recently popped into the office of Lewiston Public Library children’s librarian Sara Turner and said, “I know you! You were at my school yesterday.”
When Turner asked the girl if she got a book to take home, the girl replied she got “Dog Man,” and added that she then “begged and begged” her sister to bring her to the library.
The student is one of many who got a new book after completing the Summer Reading Program log. The log’s “Read, Make, Explore” theme encouraged readers of all ages to not only read, but to get out into the community and explore new things and places.
Mayor Carl L. Sheline said the program was an asset to the community. “The library is a cornerstone of our city, and I’m proud of the programs that Sara and the children’s department have developed for all ages this past summer.”
The summer reading program ran from June 27 to Aug. 13, and provided readers of all ages with logs that also served as bookmarks. Participants could log reading time combined with other activities, such as signing out a Maine state park pass or a nature backpack filled with educational activities on the topics of birds, wildlife, and plants provided by the Maine Audubon Society.
Turner said adults were part of the program, too, completing more reading logs than last year and taking part in discussions with ReadME in partnership with the Maine Humanities Council, listening to singer-songwriter Marc Blac and learning about community solar, whales of Maine, and First Amendment rights.
“Every person has different learning styles, and we want to provide accommodations for more than just reading,” Turner said. “It’s about experience, it’s about engagement, and educational enrichment in many learning forms. We want a connection with the Lewiston Public Library to be safe, a place where people feel accepted, and a place where they are understood.”
In addition to in-person activities with an “Ocean of Possibilities” theme, the reading program provided presentations, lecture talks and crafts for adults; and learning enrichment programs about sharks, cephalopods, and the importance of keeping the environment clean. Participants also visited with Mr. Drew and His Animals Too in Kennedy Park.
The program also took place at the city’s elementary schools, where summer camps were being held. Turner gave away more than 400 books to the summer campers. “There’s nothing like receiving a brand new book as your very own, especially if you’ve only had used books,” Turner said. “Even in these small moments, you never know how it can impact a child’s life.”
She said that reading helps kids understand people who are different than them, develop empathy, understand the world around them, and see themselves in characters and stories. It also “fosters social-emotional development through programs and outreach,” while children also discover the joy of stories, and it elevates the importance of lifelong learning.
“Summer reading opportunities are a plus towards higher reading achievement and can also result in improved reading skills, motivation, confidence, and enjoyment,” Turner said.
Also this summer, Lewiston High School 21st Century teens used the teen space, with many new teen patrons visiting the library. Library staff and teen volunteers also hosted story times within the community, and the teen space was also a popular venue for teens and families to play games, read, watch movies, do crafts, and stay cool.
