Smithers Public Library will be offering a free Summer Reading Club (SRC) for children ages three to 12.
The program will run from July 2 until Aug. 9.
The groups will be separated by age and will meet once a week at the library, taking part in activities, stories, crafts and games, which will all relate to the theme World of Curiosities.
The program was created so that children continue developing their reading skills during the summer break.
“We want to create strong students in the fall. One of the main benefits of our reading club is keeping our children in reading and connecting and learning through fun summer activities,” said Jessica Generoux, SRC Coordinator.
“We split them all up and they each have activities generated for their age level,” Generoux said.
With technology and screen-time more accessible to children, Generoux sees kids engaging in a good book important now more than ever.
“We continue to promote picking up a book and reading because it is the most effective way to connect with others. To enjoy the words, the language, the ideas that are being portrayed in a simple story and observe and enjoy the illustrations [is important],” she said.
Fiona Burns, who is now 12, will be starting her final summer in the SRC and hopes to volunteer in the future so she can foster her love for reading to other children.
“I enjoy the fact that I can go to new places and connect with characters even if I'm not there,” Burns said.
Her favourite books are the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan.
“I enjoy learning about Greek mythology, even if it isn't real,” she said.
This summer, Burns wants to start reading The Land of Stories series by Chris Colfer.
“[SRC] can help you start a love of reading and connect with people who also like to read,” Burns said.