The Community Times Dispatch

The Colleton County Memorial Library launched the 2009 Summer Reading Program “Be Creative at Your Library” and the new TEEN Summer Reading Program “Express Yourself at Your Library” on June 12th for children ages 0 and beyond.

Children’s Librarian Sheila Martina Keaise, along with assistants Millie Murray and Allan Badger played host to scores of children ages 0-12 on the front lawn for the annual kick-off celebration. Carl Coffin introduced the program designed to reach children ages 12 through 17.

Great storybook reading, reading clues, mind puzzles, face painting, ballooning, and just an all out great celebration of literacy was markedly seen upon faces of program attendees. Youth are encouraged to read, write and illustrate. Whether reading fiction, non-fiction, biography or recounting videos or books on cassette, the Colleton County Memorial Library Summer Reading Programs have plenty of prize opportunities for every child to aspire.

“The importance of reading aloud to children of all ages cannot be stressed enough, even for children who can read on their own,” said Keaise. “What are the benefits to be gained from reading aloud? Instilling a love of reading in your child, sharing more difficult books that your child may not be able to read alone, encouraging reluctant readers, and increasing family involvement through the sharing of good books are just some of the benefits.”

Youth have an opportunity to sign-up for the Spelling Bee, Talent Show, Give Me Five, Fashion Show, and Mother Goose Book Jeopardy. How about an “All You Can Read Buffet” or “Poetry and Pizza” or “Guitar Hero Tournament” or “Social Networking Workshop,” or “Wii @ Your Library” and don’t forget the “Ice Cream and Karaoke Party.”

The Colleton County Memorial Library offers special thanks to: The Coastal Community Foundation Beaufort Fund Grant; Friends of the Colleton County Memorial Library; Palmetto Rural Telephone; Garris Logging, Inc.; P&D Groceries; Wal-mart; Pat Garris; Wendy’s; Dr. Robert Thomas; Millie Murray; Ava & Sophie Miller; Morrison Veterinarian Clinic; William Cannon; Old Band Christmas & Gifts; Antiques & Collectibles of Walterboro; Pandora’s Gift Shop; First Federal of SC; Ruth Williams; CVS Pharmacy; General Food IGA; Bi-Lo; Piggly Wiggly; H & D Groceries; Palmetto Parcels Plus; United Way; and Food Land.