The Onalaska Public Library launched its summer reading program with a fun-filled event at Caney Creek Park’s Garland Pavilion in which families enjoyed creative activities like sponge painting, puppet-making, bracelet crafting and more and younger children played with sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and Duplo blocks.
Students may go to the library, sign up for the summer reading program, set reading goals and choose books to enjoy all summer. Library Director Sherry Brecheen emphasized the program’s goal of keeping kids engaged in learning during the break. This year’s theme, Color Our World, highlights the importance of the arts.
Each week, the library offers free events and “Take & Make” art kits. New this year is the Choose Your Summer Reading Challenge, where kids can track their reading by books, minutes, or activities. Running from June 1 to July 31, the program includes weekly events, rewards and a chance to win prizes at the End of Summer Celebration at 2 p.m. on July 31. Pick up a schedule at the library or download it online – and don’t forget to share your progress with Miss Sherry.
Located in the Onalaska City Hall at 372 S. FM 356, the Onalaska Public Library is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays but is closed from noon to 1 p.m. Call 936-646-2665 or email librarian@cityofonalaska.us to renew materials. You may follow “Onalaska Library” on Facebook.
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation recently awarded the library a $3,000 grant to support summer literacy. The funds are a part of a record-setting, one-day donation in the Foundation’s history of more than $13.2 million to support adult, family and summer literacy programs in the 48 states in which Dollar General operates.
“For over 30 years, the Foundation has been investing in literacy and basic education programs in our hometown communities,” Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, said. “This grant announcement is a celebration of our unwavering commitment to student and teacher success. We are grateful to all the grant recipients for their commitment to advancing education and helping students thrive.”
Brecheen has been pleased with the library’s fundraising efforts.
“We’ve had great sponsorship from individuals, businesses and organizations this year. Many beautiful new books were purchased to support this summer’s art theme. We honor these generous donors with photographs featuring children reading. The Dollar General Literacy Foundation was our largest doner this year. Additionally, the local Piney Woods Writing Guild held a book launch in May and raised over $460 for use at our summer programs. Come see the signed copy of the book, Summer’s Edge, an anthology written by several writers in this group. Thanks to radio station 102.3 The Eagle for helping to spread the word about this event and our summer reading program,” Brecheen said.
“We’ve added some exciting new items to our collection and they’re available for checkout Try the yeti in my spaghetti game, explore nature with the bug habitat toy, or get creative with the Lego bonsai tree from the botanical collection. Planning something special? Check out our adventure cookie cutters featuring mountain range and tent shapes – perfect for summer themed baking fun. We’ve also added a pineapple upside-down cake pan and a Barbie cake pan – great choices for birthdays or other celebrations. Stop by and explore what’s new. You never know what fun you’ll find at the library,” Brecheen said.
