TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Tyndall library is kicking off the free Summer Reading Program at the library with a fun-filled day June 22 starting at 11:30 a.m.
The kick-off celebration will have a bouncy castle, balloon animals, stories and craft time for attendees.
“The main purpose for this program is to encourage literacy over the summer months to prevent a summer slide,” said Juliann Saratsis, 325th Force Support Squadron library technician. “It is designed to encourage a love of reading and to help students progress in their skills.”
This year’s theme is “Reading by Design.” This free six-week program will encompass science, technology, engineering, design, robotics, fashion and other weekly topics every Thursday at 11:30 a.m. running through July 27.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to promote literacy and for kids to meet each other and work on a project together,” said Saratsis. “It is also a great way to build on the community on base because there aren’t many summer programs available to this area geared towards military families.”
During some weeks, Airmen from different units will attend and show kids how their units incorporate science, technology and design toward their mission at Tyndall and read to children.
Children are highly encouraged to attend every week and do as much independent reading as possible, said Saratsis.
“I think the kids will do better in school after they read more and hopefully these events create more enthusiasm for them to read,” said Noah Matthew Mckone, 325th FSS library aide. “There is a lot of opportunities for kids to meet new friends during our events and they’re going to be a good time.”
“I haven’t been a part of large programs like this, but I am excited to help out how I can,” said Patti Cantrell, an event volunteer. “I think everyone should join. If you’re on the fence, you should give it a try. It’s free for anybody who wants to participate and there is a lot here to do for the kids and parents.”
The registration is open for kids ages 1-18. Parents can register their kids online at www.tyndall.beanstack.org.
For more information on the Summer Reading Program or for opportunities to volunteer, call (850) 283-4287 or visit the Tyndall library Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tyndalllibrary.