The theme is a closely guarded secret – but entry closes in just a week’s time for the Family Library’s Summer Reading Scheme.
The Department of Education-run library on Westmoreland Road, Douglas, keeps children entertained every summer with a reading challenge on a different theme.
Entries for the 2009 scheme close in just a week’s time, on Saturday 6th June, and children have work to do before then.
Mary Cousins, Librarian-in-Charge, said ‘Children need to collect a registration card and a star shape to decorate at home. They have to return both the card and shape to us by Saturday 6 June – and earlier if they are affected by road closures that day for racing.’
Children must sign up in person, as their photos will be taken and used to customise the fun materials that form part of the scheme.
Mary explained that each Summer Reading Scheme had a new theme. ‘The pirate theme we came up with last year was hugely popular with children and parents and we are confident that this year’s scheme will be just as much fun,’ she said.
‘We can’t tell anyone what the theme is yet, as we like to keep it a secret until the launch day. It’s part of the fun to keep the children guessing and then to see the looks of surprise when they walk through the library doors.’
Mary said: ‘Last year’s scheme kept all the staff and members very busy throughout the holidays and lots of children completed the summer-long challenge. We felt very proud that our scheme created such excitement and prolonged interest and we are sure children and parents won’t be disappointed this year.’
She added ‘The scheme is a lot of work for staff but we just love the fun everyone has taking part.’
The Family Library allows children to borrow up to six books, three CDs and one DVD for up to two weeks at a time and membership costs just ?1 a year. Parents of young members can join for just ?3 a year.
The library, which is open five days a week, hosts dozens of events all year round, from workshops to talks by visiting authors.
Pictured: Kath Garrett, librarian, with Skelcher-Maxwell
