West Hillsborough News

Make reading fun during break from school with challenges, author visits, and prizes

Summer reading is critical for a child's development, but that doesn't mean it can't be fun! Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library is hosting a summer reading program filled with interactive events, reading challenges, and prizes for all ages.

According to the Northwest Evaluation Association, school-year gains in reading and math may decrease as much as 20% to 50% during the summer months. Reading during the school-year gap helps a child's critical thinking skills and ability to retain information, as well as encourages an interest in reading for pleasure. Children also learn by example, so it's important for parents and caregivers to develop a reading habit, too.

Summer Reading 2022: Oceans of Possibilities, taking place June 1-July 31, consists of reading challenges, ocean-themed events, fun prizes, and virtual visits with popular authors for all ages. Participants are encouraged to track their reading to qualify for a variety of prizes.

There will also be a unique opportunity for attendees to hear from notable authors in an event called the Summer Author Series. During three virtual visits, award-winning authors will discuss writing, read from their books, and answer audience questions. Participants will also get the chance to win a free book. Kate DiCamillo, New York Times Bestseller and Newbery Award Winner, kicks off the author series on Friday, June 3, at 6:30 p.m., followed by two more virtual visits with different authors through June 29.

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library is offering Summer Reading in partnership with ZooTampa at Lowry Park, the Tampa-Hillsborough County Children's Library Foundation, Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County Inc., Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, Hillsborough County Public Schools, and Tampa Bay History Center. To register and learn more about Summer Reading 2022: Oceans of Possibilities, visit HCPLC.org/Summer or call (813) 273-3652.

Original source can be found here.