Summer Reading Clubs

Rain or shine, if you are looking for a fun family activity this summer, check out your local library. Nova Scotia's public libraries are offering a variety of reading programs for youth this summer.

"These clubs create opportunities for children and families to make reading a fun part of their summer," said Darcy Johns, youth services librarian, Cole Harbour Library. "Kids love the great books, the fantastic prizes, and wonderful free programs."

One club offered at many libraries is the TD Summer Reading Club, which is a joint initiative with Library and Archives Canada. The theme this year is EUREKA! with a focus on science, technology, reading, creativity, and art. The theme was chosen to inspire imaginations and a love of reading. Children registered in the programs will receive free reading club materials in English and French, and a chance to win prizes.

Studies show that children's reading levels often drop over the summer. "The goal of the summer reading clubs is to get children actively reading for the fun of it with the hidden benefit of curbing learning loss that can occur over the summer break," said provincial librarian, Jennifer Evans.

In 2013, more than 15,400 children and teens participated in over 1,300 summer reading club programs at Nova Scotia public libraries, reading nearly 120,000 books.

Contact your local public library to find out more about reading club activities and special events. Programs run until the end of August.