Several local families enjoyed a nature scavenger hunt and hike to Pearson’s Falls on June 25 as part of Polk County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. The next children’s event at the library is Fli-Rite Learning’s “Dig into the Past: Exploring Ancient Egypt and Simple Machines!” Educator T.J. Shimeld will bring books to life with glorious costumes, magic, puppetry and hands-on demonstrations. The program will be held at both the Columbus library (Tuesday, July 9 at 10:30 a.m.) and the Saluda Library (Wednesday, July 10 at 10:30 a.m.).

The library’s Summer Reading Program events will continue through Aug. 6. Upcoming performers include Professor Whizzpop and Big Bang Boom. There will also be a movie night and picnic lunch at Harmon Field. Please note that registration is required for the picnic.

Children of all ages can also register for the Summer Reading Program and receive a reading log and other goodies. Kids can then bring their reading logs in to the library every week for a sticker and turn them in at the end of the summer to receive a prize. One lucky reader will also win the grand prize: a $50 gift certificate to The Book Shelf in Tryon.

For more information, visit the children department’s website at www.polklibrary.org/kids/, Facebook (Polk County Public Library Children’s Department) or Twitter (@PolkCoLibKids). If you have any questions, want to sign up for the monthly Children’s and Young Adults Newsletter or wish to register for the picnic, contact Children’s Services Coordinator Jen Pace at 828-894-8721 ext. 227 or jpace@polklibrary.org.

– article submitted by Jen Pace