HPL
This year’s Hays Public Library Summer Challenge theme is "All Together Now!" The challenge will run from May 22 to July 29.
The library will use the online program Beanstack to track summer reading for children and teens. Through Beanstack, families register participants and use the program to log their reading progress. Staff will assist with sign-up and logging for those without computer access. Challenges have been created for each age group, early literacy, elementary, and young adult.
For children and teens, the Summer Challenge is an exciting way to improve literacy during the summer months. Numerous studies show that kids who don't read during summer vacation, actually slip in reading ability by the time school begins in the fall.
Registration is required and begins May 1, online or in person. Each child who registers receives a gift. A prize will be given to each child who completes their challenge by the end of the event on July 29. Those who complete the challenge also will put their name in a drawing for the grand prize of their choice. The ending party this year will be held at the Hays Aquatic Park. Only those who complete the Summer Challenge by July 26 will receive an invitation to the pool party.
Adults participate in the Summer Challenge by completing activities on a bookmark that can be picked up at the library, beginning May 22. They will receive a tote bag when they sign up. There will be 12 challenges. Adults will have until July 28 to complete all the challenges and submit an entry into the end of the summer adult prize drawing.
A day of activities will kick off the Challenge on May 22nd. Along with crafts and snacks, the day will include performances by Jammin’ Randy at 10 a.m., Jetpack Jason at 1 p.m., and the Wizard of Oz Museum at 3 p.m.
For more information about the Summer Challenge and to sign up on Beanstack, go to hayslibrary.org/srp23 or call 785-625-9014.