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The Whitehall Library wrapped up a very successful summer reading program last week with a pair of special events.
On Friday, participants in the program met at the library for an ice cream party and awards banquet.
More than 30 children and their parents crowded into the reading room at the library where they enjoy vanilla ice cream cones served by program leaders Karen Gordon, Kathi Ripley and Annette Parrott.
Each child also received a certificate of participation, a book and a gift certificate. And participants in the independent reading program who turned in all their reading logs, received medals.
A telescope was awarded to Jolene Davis, who read 100 books during the five-week program.
The following day, children were treated to a performance of “Dreaming Dragon” by the Puppet People at Whitehall High School. Afterwards they were given the opportunity to design their own rod puppets.
Gordon said this summer’s reading program was the most successful in its history. She said 65 children ages 3 to 8 were enrolled in the program, the most ever.
The program, which began on June 26, was split into two different groups: independent readers (ages 5 to 8) and story hour (ages 3 to 5).
The younger children listened to stories while the older group read books and wrote poems and book reports. Some of those poems are in display at the library.
Gordon said the program is intended to fill the void left when school isn’t in session. “The goal is keep them reading all summer,” she said.
Participants in the independent reading program read 594 books.
The program is funded by a grant through the Southern Adirondack Library System.
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