A bonanza of reading is a fitting description of the Attala County Library Summer Reading Program that is ending this week. The Mississippi Library Commission was a co-sponsor.
More than 300 Attala County youngsters and teens can boast of taking part in the bonanza designed to promote the idea that reading is fun.
In May the library gave out the challenge “On Your Mark, Get Set . . . Read.” They met the challenge when 12,202 books were checked out by 327 who registered. They chose books selected for their age and reading level.
Children’s librarian Jessica Oakes said the reading bonanza was rewarding to see so many youngsters continue to broaden their knowledge during vacation from the classroom.
“It addition to rewarding it’s fun to see children so excited about reading and about winning prizes for their efforts.” said Oakes. In the library children’s area, shelves take on a bare appearance during the height of the summer, according to Oakes.
Librarian Eloise Williams said she is pleased to see the success of summer reading as well as the response throughout the year of the use of the library which is the headquarters of the Mid-Mississippi Regional Library that serves five counties.
Interspersed with the reading blitz was a variety of educational and fun activities. Due to the large attendance most programs were moved to the Attala County Coliseum where members of the Kosciusko Junior Auxiliary assisted library personnel.
The fun activities at the coliseum began with illusionist Todd Smith followed with entertainment by Magician Dorian LaChance. Animal Tales from Mayfield, Ky., brought birds, animals and a snake with several volunteers assisting in its handling. A Get Heart Smart presentation focused on health. Students from Attala Martial Arts gave a demonstration of their sparring skills.
In addition to reading, the 33 teens who registered were also entertained with a movie day, a pizza party, martial arts demonstration, animal tales and a speaker from the Mississippi Sports Museum and Hall of Fame.
Reading is fun came to life on Tuesday with Waterworks Day when bathing suits were appropriate attire. The Kosciusko Fire Department brought a shower with fire hoses in the parking lot. Watermelon was donated by Sunflower and lemonade cups by KFD-Taco Bell
Fun Day at the coliseum will climax the program on July 14 for those who read at least 20 books on their reading level. Their names are placed in a drawing for one boy’s bicycle and one girl’s bicycle donate by Wal-Mart. There will be bounce houses, refreshments and door prizes.
Librarian Williams said use of the library is consistent throughout the year. She reported that 18,787, an average of 6,262 per month, were checked out May 23-June 30 from its 11,286 registered patrons. This is an indication of how much the library is used, she said.
