The Joy of Reading – Kids had a fun-filled summer at the Saugus Public Library

By Amy Melton

What a busy summer in the Children’s Room at the Saugus Public Library! Over 400 kids joined our summer reading program and they logged over 4,000 hours of reading!

This year’s theme was Reading Dragons. In addition to our prize cart and raffles, kids earned dragon trading cards. Over 100 kids logged 25 hours of reading and earned their own dragon egg!

We are so grateful to all our community partners that supported summer reading, including the New Friends of the Saugus Library, Saugus Iron Works, Saugus Public Schools, Saugus Fire Department, Saugus Police Department and the Mass Cultural Council.

Readers won prizes for logging their minutes read. The prizes included free new books, toys and gift cards from local businesses! A HUGE thank you to all of the local businesses and individuals who donated prizes and services this summer.

Our summer reading program aims to motivate children to read books they truly love and beat the “Summer Slide,” in which student progress can “slide” backwards during the break from school. Studies show that reading motivation is one of the most important factors in predicting student reading achievement.

Upcoming program

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, families are invited to enjoy live music with Evan Haller outdoors at the Saugus Iron Works. Kids of all ages are welcome; no registration required. See online event calendar for more details.

  Editor’s Note: Amy Melton is Head of Children’s Services at the Saugus Public Library.