Children ages birth to fifth grade can now sign up for the 2014 Summer Reading Program at Polk County Public Library. The theme, “Fizz, Boom, Read,” explores all kinds of science topics from turtle conservation to liquid nitrogen and more. Kids can participate in many entertaining and educational programs at the library to keep their minds sharp, and enter school in the fall ready to learn and succeed.
Registration is online at http://polklibrary.org/kids/. After registration, children can visit the library to pick up a reading log and BINGO card. Incentives are provided for keeping track of the amount of time spent reading and participants can enter the grand prize drawings by playing BINGO.
There will be children’s events every Tuesday at the library in Columbus from June 17 to August 5. The kick-off program is Wildlife of Western N.C. Chimney Rock Park will bring creatures native to the area and explain the different characteristics and adaptations of these animals. Other events include science experiments and demonstrations, a movie matinee, a magic show, hiking, a reptile program, and a wrap-up party. Selected programs will also be held Saluda Community Library and some require registration. Complete program information is available on the library’s website or at any PCPL location.
Polk County Public Library’s first ever Teen Summer Reading Program starts this summer with “Spark a Reaction.” Middle and high school students can register online and pick up a BINGO card and goody bag at the library. Teen Night is on the third Thursday of every month, with Teen Book Club at 4 p.m. followed by a craft or movie. There are two special teen events this summer as well. “Teens Take Over” the library after hours on August 1 and have free reign for games, photo scavenger hunts, crafts, and more! Fans of the Divergent series will also enjoy a movie screening and party on August 12. Visit http://polklibrary.org/teens/ for details.
All programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Polk County Public Library and are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Jen Pace, Youth Services Coordinator, at jpace@polklibrary.org or 828-894-8721 ext. 227.

– article submitted
by Jen Pace