Summer time ... and the reading is easy

If you go down to the library today /
You're sure of a big surprise /
If you go down to the library today /
You'd better go in disguise!

It's not the Teddy Bear's Picnic ... but the animals have landed at Castlebar library and they're here until the end of August. Kittens, dogs, dinosaurs, donkeys, birds, rabbits, and unusually curious mice - you name the creature and we've got the book to fit the bill (or beak, or snout, or little button nose).

Why are furs, feathers and tails running amok at the library this summer? Well, it's all to do with the Summer Reading Challenge - back this year by popular demand. Like the corncrake, the distinctive cry of just-out-of-school children everywhere can be heard in houses and apartments all over Mayo this summer: whoops of joy giving way to whines of "I'm boooooored" in the blink of an eye.

Parents, instead of tearing your hair out, why not treat yourself and your children to a library visit? Pick up a form for the Summer Reading Challenge and harness their naturally competitive instinct into something worthwhile.

As in previous years, Castlebar Library will run its Summer Reading Challenge through July and August. This year, we're focusing on a furry interesting theme, which should give paws for thought: animal friends! At least eight books should be read, but there will be spot prizes for those who get through more than that, or who write a particularly impressive review.

So, young readers, collect your form from Castlebar Library, and ... Ready, Steady, GET READING! Pick up a Geronimo Stilton or an Animal Ark, a Dinosaur Cove or a Hairy Maclary from the library, have a read, give it your best (or worst!) review, collect a stamp for each book you complete, and finish up by the end of August.

The challenge will be open to children aged from six upwards, and children aged six to seven can draw a picture instead if they wish. Every child who participates will receive a special certificate and an invitation to a celebratory evening in the library.

If you want to create some summer fun for your children, improve their confidence and reading ability, encourage reluctant readers, try new authors, and spend some time together, the Summer Reading Challenge is a must for you. Summer Reading programs can boost a child's comprehension levels, and help them become more successful in the ensuing school year. Studies show that many children involved in a summer reading program gain significant vocabulary and self-disciplined learning skills during this time. Taking part in a Summer Reading Program means that your child will not lose ground in terms of his/her reading ability if they are given the opportunity to practice their reading skills throughout the summer holidays.

While they're busy notching up their reviews, take a moment to browse the shelves for yourself. Summer weather in the west of Ireland can often be more miss than hit, but the wonderful thing about reading is that it's an activity that is truly suitable for all weathers. In Castlebar Library, there are books to suit all tastes and interests - not to mention music to relax to and movies to indulge in. Whether you're a teenager who has just been released from exam torment or a tired employee seeking some rest and relaxation - we have just the book for you.

And finally, and perhaps in these recessionary times most importantly, membership of the library is FREE to any child under the age of 18, so taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge will cost you nothing and enrich your child's life a hundred-fold.