Library invites adults to ‘dig deep’ for summer reading

With the theme of Dig Deeper, the Saline County Library is planning a variety of activities geared toward adults for its Summer Reading program.

“We know people think summer reading is about children’s programs or studying for a test or seniors,” said Community Engagement Manager Kari Lapp, adding the library wants to show adults the library is for them too.

Adults can sign up to log their reading with either a paper reading tracker or Beanstack, which they can access through the library website or the Beanstack app. Lapp encourages people to use the app because it is easier.

Each time they complete five days of reading, they will be entered for the chance to win prizes ranging in value from $50 to $150. The prizes are a metal detector, a robot vacuum, a spa package, a portable greenhouse, a bluetooth speaker, a Cricket joy, a Switch Lite and an Amazon Echo. The grand prize at the end of the summer will be a tablet package.

They will also get prizes for every 10 days of reading — a library tote, a T-shirt, bluetooth headphones and a book buck. Every adult who completes their reading will get those prizes.

“Who doesn’t love to get rewarded for doing things,” Lapp said.

The library will continue to offer its weekly programs, such as adult art series and adult D&D night. There are also several special events planned ranging from learning about meteorology to learning to “Write You Own Obituary.”

There will be two Carpool Cinema nights for adults. From 7 to 9:30 p.m. June 17, they plan to show “Avatar.” From 7 to 9:30 p.m. July

15, they will show “Jurassic Park.” Both will be at the Benton branch and both require registration in advance.

There will be bingo, trivia and Jackbox game night during the summer.

Potterpalooza will finish off the summer for patrons age 21 and older from 6 to 8 p.m. July 30. Registration is required. Lapp said Harry Potter’s birthday is at the end of July, so it is a perfect way to end the summer, adding many patrons grew up with Harry Potter. The library has done Harry Potter nights before and they have been popular.

The library also has events planned for all ages to enjoy together.

The full list of events can be found on the library website, www.salinecountylibrary.org.

Lapp does not want people to be intimidated by logging reading over the summer. She said people read all the time and may not think about it, such as news articles or emails. They do not have to read books.

Lapp added that reading is great for the mind.

She encourages everyone to sign up for summer reading.

For questions, contact the library at 501-778-4766.