The Apache Junction Public Library invites readers of all ages to a summer full of color and creativity by participating in the “Color Our World” summer reading program, which has a variety of giveaways and prizes as well as more than 100 free events.
The program began Saturday, May 24, and continues through Saturday, July 12.
Reading enthusiasts can register at apachejunction.beanstack.org or on the Beanstack App to track their reading and win prizes. Registration is open to Apache Junction residents and nonresidents alike.
Readers of all age groups can collect prizes as they read throughout the summer, plus bonus prizes as they meet their reading goals. Prizes include:
- Passes to the Multi-Generational Center or the Superstition Shadows Aquatic Center.
- Freebies to restaurants like Texas Roadhouse, Culver’s, Sonic, Panda Express and Raising Cane’s.
- A free book from AJPL’s Scholastic Book Fair (July 7–12) for participants ages 0-18 years old who meet their reading goals.
- And gift basket drawing entries for all participants who meet their reading goals.
“Participating in the summer reading program is an excellent opportunity for students to maintain and improve the reading skills they acquired during the school year, all while earning free prizes,” Pam Harrison, director of the Apache Junction Public Library, said in the release. “Additionally, the program isn’t only for kids - it offers exciting prizes and events for people of all ages.”
Free events to be hosted by the library include cooking classes, a radical reptile show, guided painting workshops, and a variety of other activities.
To celebrate the launch of the summer reading program, the library will host two kick-off events:
- Color Your Summer Party noon-2 p.m. Thursday, May 29, at the library, 1177 N. Idaho Road. Families and kids will enjoy fun activities, free ice cream (donated by Blue Bell) and giveaways from community guests including Apache Junction Parks and Recreation, Superstition Fire and Medical, Apache Junction Police, Salt River Project and the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension.
- Page & Palette: A Summer Reading Soiree 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 30 at Paige Artists Gallery Studio, 300 W. Apache Trail Suite No. 106A. Teens and adults will enjoy bites and sips, prize drawings and a curated selection of books amidst artwork.
For information about the “Color Our World” summer reading program, go to ajpl.org/summer-reading.
