A new reading program called “Stars & Stories” is coming to the Surprise Public Library System to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday.

The program will encourage readers to log 1,776 minutes from Wednesday, Oct. 1 through Independence Day in honor of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

Readers will be awarded badges and prizes, based on minutes read. Prizes include books, American flags, challenge coins and patriotic swag.

All three city libraries plan to host specialty “Stars & Stories” events throughout the year with a speaker series on various U.S. history and Armed Forces topics.

The city has set up a webpage at 1776.surprisepubliclibrary.gov to register and get information about the program.

A kickoff party will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Surprise Regional Library, 15960 N. Bullard Ave.

This special event will feature a reading of the Declaration of Independence, live music and family-friendly activities.

There is no registration required.

Check out Surprise America 250 library events at SurprisePublicLIbrary.gov/Programs and search America 250.

For citywide event to commemorate the birthday, check out surpriseaz.gov/America250.