Rehoboth library summer reading program helps build a better world

Build a Better World was the national summer reading theme by the Collaborative Summer Library Program. Participants focused on building, architecture and engineering, and learning that being a good citizen, being kind to neighbors and building friendships are also important. Registered summer readers logged over 550 reading hours. The Rehoboth Beach Public Library hosted 83 individual programs, with almost 800 kids and adults in attendance.

Events included the library's weekly performing arts series with local shows by juggler Cascading Carlos, the Rehoboth Summer Children's Theatre, magician Mike Rose, mime Mark Lohr and children's entertainer Rick Waterhouse. The Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation and the Delaware Nature Society at Abbott's Mill donated programs to all Delaware libraries.

Weekly story times were held at the library and at the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market. Other programs included Junior Architects, a building experiment and challenge time on Wednesdays; Teen Thursdays, a book club that will morph into an Anime and Manga club this fall for middle and high school-age students, and the year-round, monthly Junior Makers LEGO Club continued through the summer.

Earlier this summer, library funding was cut at state and national levels. Funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services was threatened to be completely abolished. Losing these types of summer programs is one example of how libraries will be affected if budgets and funds continue to diminish. Also, budgets for materials, technology, and other services will be impacted.

Rehoboth Beach Public Library thanks the following local businesses for their generous donations and support of the summer reading program. Each of these businesses has donated to the program year after year. They are favorites of families, and the kids are so excited when they see what is given. Supporters include Applebee's Neighborhood Bar & Grill, Chick-fil-A, the Delmarva Shorebirds, Friends of the Rehoboth Beach Public Library, Funland, Grotto Pizza, Jungle Jim's, McDonald's, Nicola Pizza, Philly Pretzel Factory, Rehoboth Toy & Kite Co. and Sweet Frog.