Sign up for Mesa Library summer reading program

Mesa Public Library aims to keep the community engaged all summer long with its summer reading program and related activities.

Mesa Public Library participates in the Maricopa County Reads Program, June 1 through July 20, encouraging people of all ages to read for at least 20 minutes a day. Register at https://www.mesalibrary.org/events/summer-reading

This year’s theme is “Unearth a Story,” celebrating dinosaurs and encouraging pre-readers through adults to explore the library, read books, win prizes and have fun.

Participants can earn online badges to keep a healthy competition with family and friends as they earn points by reading and collecting secret codes for extra points at library events, with the goal of reaching 1,000 points by July 20, according to release.

Every minute spent reading equals one point. There are prizes for all ages when they log 250, 500, 750 and 1000 points. Based on point levels, prizes include restaurant coupons, Arizona State Parks passes, Phoenix Mercury tickets and free books. All prizes and coupons are subject to availability while supplies last. Readers who finish the program with 1,000 points will be entered for raffle prizes.

“Our goal is to make summer reading enjoyable and accessible for everyone while encouraging families to read together,” Mesa Library Director Polly Bonnett said in the release. “Reading during the summer not only helps children maintain and strengthen their reading fluency and comprehension skills, but it also offers meaningful benefits for readers of all ages.”

Mesa Library’s participation in the Maricopa County Reads Program plays a vital role reducing the “Summer Slide” or the learning loss experienced while transitioning between school years.

While online registration is encouraged, there will also be kickoff events at three Mesa Library branches to allow library patrons to register:

• 9 a.m. to noon Monday, June 1 at the Gateway Branch, 5036 S. Eastmark Parkway, which is hosting a foam party with giant bubbles, music and dancing. Event registration at https://tinyurl.com/4h88zbcu is required.
• 10-11 a.m. Monday, June 1 at the Red Mountain Branch, 635 N. Power Road, with Dino Crew Entertainment in the library. Tickets will be handed out 30 minutes prior to the program.
• 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, June 3 at the Main Library, 64 E. First St., with have dinosaur-themed arts and craft activities.

A link to register and get information on prizes is available at https://www.mesalibrary.org/events/summer-reading.