No one can get kids excited about reading quite like the Webster Public Library.
That’s exactly what was going on last night at North Ponds Park when the library hosted its gala Summer Reading Kickoff Party. It featured games and crafts, raffle baskets and book drawings, a scavenger hunt, storytime with Jason and a special appearance from R2D2 himself (accompanied by some stormtroopers).
All the hoopla was designed to get kids (and adults) psyched about this year’s summer’s reading program. Called “Tails and Tales,” participants earn points by reading throughout the summer. There are three prize levels as you progress, and at 1000 points you get a handsome completion certificate and entry into the grand prize drawing.
The program runs through Sept. 3. Four different levels are offered so the entire family can participate: pre-K (0-4), children (5-12), teens (13-17) and adults. Participation can be virtual via Readsquared (click here to download) or in-person at the library. Stop by anytime during normal library hours to pick up your bookmark and start logging minutes.
And while you’re at the library, you HAVE TO check out the life-sized Candy Land game they’ve set up in the children’s room.
The game is just like the one you remember when you were a kid (and perhaps still play with your kids), but full-sized. Players each put on a headband and “become” a playing piece. They choose a card from the deck, then follow the large colored squares through the room, past the Chocolate Swamp, Lollipop Woods, Peppermint Field and more, leading to King Candy’s Castle. Staff members have done an amazing job decorating the room and bringing to life one of everyone’s favorite family games.
Families and small groups (no larger than 10) are invited to sign up for a time slot. It takes about a half hour to complete the game. It’s proved to be so popular that this week the library will be opening up more spots in the evenings and through August. Click here to find out more and reserve your spot.
The Webster Public Library is located at the rear of Webster Plaza, 980 Ridge Rd.
One more thing I want you to notice when you’re at the library.
When you walk through the front door, take a look to the left at the amazing wall-sized library logo crafted completely out of cardboard.
The mural is the handiwork of library staff members Linda Liddle and Katrina Viza, and is really impressive. The photo below doesn’t do it justice. You have to get up close and personal to really appreciate it.
* * *
email me at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.
You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Follow Me” link on the right side of this page.
webster on the web 
Leave a Reply