Summer Reading Program (Pandemic Edition)

Around this time of year I normally talk about the start of the Summer Reading Program, how much fun it is, and why everyone should do it. While I'm still going to talk about those things, I'm also going to talk about how the library is going to begin the program while we're still in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.

So, here's the lowdown, simply put:

• The Summer Reading Program is starting virtually.
• The dates are June 1-August 31, 2020.
• Register online at https://fairchildafblibrary.beanstack.org or download the Beanstack App on your phone. (Note: Paper logs can be delivered curbside upon request.)
• Anyone 13 and older can register themselves; adults can register themselves and children under 13 as a family (children 13 and over can be registered with the family, if preferred).
• Once registered, sign in and log minutes under Log Reading and Activities.
• Logs
• 2 hours = 1 log for children
• 6 hours = 1 log for teens
• 8 hours = 1 log for adults
• To collect PRIZES for completed logs:
• Look at our prize selection located here.
• Call the library (509-247-5556), email (fafblibrary@gmail.com), or message through Facebook (Fairchild AFB Library).
• Tell us which prizes you would like and schedule a time for curbside pickup.
• There are extra badges you can earn for writing book reviews and doing other online activities.

We don't know when the library will re-open to foot traffic and we don't know when or if we will have in-person activities for the Summer Reading Program this year. Our primary concern is to keep everyone safe and healthy.

However, that doesn't mean we can't still have fun doing the Summer Reading Program! There are a lot of cool books to read both in print and virtually. Reading takes you many places, even when you may not have any place to go. For kids, reading helps avoid the "summer slide," maintain reading skills, and perform well on school achievement tests. For adults, reading is interesting, entertaining, and keeps the brain sharp.

Bottom line--the Summer Reading Program is FUN for people of all ages! Just do it!

Wishing you happy reading this summer and always from the perch.