Newton County Public Library System’s Summer Reading Program and Community Events

The Summer reading program kicked off June 1, 2023 and runs through July 28, 2023 with the theme “All Together Now” in support of community unity, just like bees, the program’s mascot. Stephanie Ducote, Library Director stated, “We chose bees as the theme this year as bees demonstrate a community working in unity to build the hive, support its queen and produce honey which supports the collective community.”

All readers from ages 3-18 years old are encouraged to participate in the reading program. Registration remains open as there are routine milestones for readers to meet, submit their reading logs and win prizes.

Readers are asked to register at the library and receive a goodie bag of tracker tools to include an activity booklet, colored pencils, a temporary bee tattoo and reading log. There are three age groups for the participating readers.

Ages 3-6 years old have a milestone of 200 reading minutes to gain prizes.

Ages 7-12 years old have a milestone of 300 reading minutes to gain prizes.

Ages 13-18 years old are asked to read 1 book during the two-month program.

In prior years, the program supported over 100 participants during the summer months. As of July 7, 2023, the Summer Reading Program had 88 registered participants, there is always room for more and registration is still open. During each week in July to help encourage participation in the reading program, the library staff created ‘Craft Grab & Go’ bags. These bags have all needed supplies to complete a craft at no charge to the recipient.

The library is supporting 4 summer events held at the Family Life Center, the large green building across from the library. Attendees to these events are not required to be part of the reading program, the events are open to everyone.

July 13, 2023, Big Time Foam and Bubble Party at 10AM.

July 18, 2023, Beaumont Children’s Museum at 1:30PM.

July 25, 2023, Beekeeper Terry McFAll at 1:30PM.

August 1, 2023, Amazing Magical Balloon Show at 1:30PM.

July 28, 2023, for ages 13-18 years old, the library is sponsoring a UV Glow Foam Party at 8:45PM in the Newton Civic Center parking lot.