School is back in session, and our libraries are a little quieter these days, but what a summer we had!
This year’s Read City USA summer library challenge theme, Roar into a Story!, was, well, a roaring success. We stomped off in May at the 20th Children’s Festival of Reading and kept the fun going all summer long. Kids of all ages explored books, programs, and activities at all 18 Knox County Public Library locations.
Many favorite programs returned to enthusiastic crowds. Dr. Hazari once again proved that chemistry can be just as exciting as the hottest video game, with the added bonus of teaching a little science along the way. Magician Michael Messing amazed audiences with his jaw-dropping tricks and plenty of laughs. The American Eagle Foundation gave attendees an up-close look at some of Tennessee’s most incredible birds of prey. Who could forget meeting Belle the screech owl and George the turkey vulture?
By the numbers, it was one of our biggest summers yet. We hosted 547 programs, awarded 15,513 prizes, and completed 52,264 literacy activities together! More young artists than ever also took part in our annual summer art show, showcasing their creativity and imagination.
Beyond all the fun, summer reading helps children build and maintain literacy skills during the break from school. Thanks to the books they read, the programs they attended, and the discoveries they made at the library, these young readers will head into the new school year ready to learn, grow, and succeed.
Special thanks to the Friends of the Library for making many of our special summer programs possible, and thank you to everyone who helped make this summer so memorable. We can’t wait to see you back at the library soon for our fall lineup!
Mary Pom Claiborne is assistant director for marketing, communications and development for Knox County Public Library.
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