Avid readers page through summer library programs

Whether relaxing by the pool or stuck inside on a rainy day, reading is always a great summer activity. The Enoch Pratt Free Library is offering several programs dedicated to books this summer.

Avid readers can sign up for the Summer Reading Club at all Pratt library locations June 9. The theme for the program, which ends in August, is a “reading road trip” to show young people they can use their imaginations to go places without leaving Baltimore, said Roswell Encina, director of communications for the Enoch Pratt Free Library.
Participants can earn a prize for reading three books, six books and nine books, explained Mr. Encina. Avid readers can also join in the running to read the most books in Baltimore during the summer.

“This encourages more kids to read during the summertime,” said Mr. Encina, adding that hundreds of youths participate each year.

The different branches offer various sign-up day treats, including ice cream, trivia, crafts, homemade car racing, stories, puzzles and door prizes.

On June 15, the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Knight Bus Tour will stop at the Pratt’s Southeast Anchor Library, one of 37 libraries chosen from across the country to be a part of the tour.

“We’re very excited to be part of Harry Mania,” said Ellen Riordan, Pratt director of Children’s Services, in a press release. “We’re always delighted to support anything that celebrates books and reading.”

Visitors will be able to discuss the Harry Potter books while aboard the Knight Bus, which is based on a bus described in the popular books. Fans of all ages are expected to attend the Knight Bus event, said Mr. Encina, who expects some will show up dressed as characters from the series.

The seventh and final installment of the Harry Potter series will be released July 21.

The Pratt also offers various weekly and monthly programs for children. One of the most popular programs for young children is Mother Goose on the Loose, said Mr. Encina. He jokingly added that library visitors may get run over by a stroller during the program, which encourages interactive reading for small children and their parents.

This summer adults can see “Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burnings,” a traveling exhibit by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, at the Pratt from July 25 to Oct. 2. The exhibit studies the impact of the Nazi book burnings in Germany during World War II and how America fought Nazism.

“We’re very honored to have this come to the library,” said Mr. Encina.

For a complete list of programs or for more information, visit www.prattlibrary.org