Splashing into summer reading at block party

The Socorro Public Library blocked off the street to kick off the summer and get families excited about reading. “All Together Now” is the theme of this year’s summer reading program. The whole family can log hours of reading and win prizes.
Russell Huffman | El Defensor Chieftain photos

The Socorro Public Library kicked off its summer reading program, “All Together Now,” in grand style last Thursday, with a water slide, water squirters, burgers on the grill and plenty of friends.

“We close off the street and just play,” Kathy Spring, youth activities librarian, said as she was registering a family for the program. When the party was over, around 150 kids and adults had signed up.

Not just for kids, the summer reading program aims to encourage adults and children to read. Even if the grownups are reading their own books, it is important for kids to see adults enjoying reading, said Spring.

Another benefit of the program is helping with the “summer slide,” which is a documented slump in reading skills during summer break. Spring said the program “helps maintain grade level reading and maybe even improves it.”

Readers can read anything they wish—in any format. SPL has books to check out, of course, but also audiobooks and e-books through the Libby app. There is an online reading log or a paper log to keep track of hours and books read.

The deadline is July 14, after which prizes will be awarded. Local businesses have been very supportive of the program, donating gift certificates for restaurants and salon services, even bicycles.

The library has several fun events planned for youth this week: June 8, Explora, 2 p.m.; June 9, Special Story Time, 10:30 a.m.; June 12, Artist of the week, 2 p.m.; June 13, Story Time 10:30 a.m.; June 14, Farm Animals, 2 p.m.

Spring said, “All the events are fun, but the most popular one is the farm animals, for sure. We have them lined up along the sidewalk and kids just love seeing them.”

If you missed the block party, it’s not too late to sign-up. Visit the Socorro Public Library, 401 Park Street, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.