LIHU‘E — Want to have a “pawesome” summer?
Join the Hawai‘i State Public Library System’s 2021 Summer Reading Program.
This year, libraries are venturing to the “wild side” with virtual and in-person activities, author talks and more as Hawai‘i’s amazing ocean creatures, land animals, birds and beasts are explored, all while enjoying terrific tales along the way.
The Summer Reading Program is on now, and runs to July 31.
Registration details can be found at librarieshawaii.org/SummerReading.
Together with the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, state Department of Land and Natural Resources and their statewide partners, children can take a deep dive into learning about the Animal of the Week — the humpback whale, Hawaiian cleaner wrasse, sharks, sea horses, lobsters, green sea turtles, monk seals, manta rays and dolphins.
Each week, children can watch videos of the featured animal, make fun crafts and download packets of activities. Teens can test their animal knowledge during a statewide “Kahoot” contest.
DLNR speakers will share information on “pono fishing” so that all may practice safe and responsible fishing methods and learn more about restricted areas, seasonal rules and protected species.
Participants can take on reading challenges at their own pace, enjoy fun activities, attend cool programs, track reading minutes and earn free incentives when they reach milestones towards a 1,000-minute goal.
For every 100 minutes of reading logged, library patrons are rewarded with virtual badges and automatic entries into statewide drawings.
The more you read, the better your chances to win the grand prize drawing: four roundtrip tickets to anywhere Alaska Airlines flies, courtesy of Alaska Airlines.
“Get ready to spend some ‘koala-ty’ time reading and visiting your library this summer,” said Stacey Aldrich, state librarian.
”Libraries are now open and accommodating reduced numbers of patrons daily for quick browse and borrow, Wi-Fi and computer sessions. Our digital doors are always open at librarieshawaii.org.
“With just a library card, you can download ebooks, stream movies, learn a language, read The New York Times and more,” she said.
To register, go to librarieshawaii.org/SummerReading.
Visit the webpage often for new information on upcoming events.
In keeping with current COVID mandates, patrons entering libraries must wear masks.
Hawai‘i’s Summer Reading Program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i, McDonald’s Restaurants of Hawai‘i, Hawai‘i Pizza Hut and other sponsors.
