TIMMINS - This summer was a page-turning success at the library.
Timmins Public Library is hosting a Space Lego Challenge at the main branch and the C.M. Shields Centennial branch to cap off the most successful run of the TD summer reading program, with 512 children reading 5,080 books since June.
“Having the new space and having a refreshed space to go into the summer really increased the engagement in the library,” said Timmins Public Library assistant director Amy Knifton.
The Lego challenge has drawn a lot of attention, and Patrick Selin, who was there with his son, Henrik, said it’s an excellent spot for families to play together.
“It’s also getting the kids settled for the school year,” he said. “It’s a good transition from summer.”
On a grey, wet day, parents and families were at the library staying dry.
Ron Hanes said it’s a great way to spend a rainy day with his grandchildren, Alex and Amelia Duguay.
“Who doesn’t love Lego?” he said.
The TD summer reading program is a nationwide bilingual program that supports over 2,000 libraries in Canada to inspire a love of reading in children at all reading levels.
Child and youth services librarian Francine Denis said the visibility of the programs at events throughout the summer, like the BIA downtown markets and the story walks, made it easier for children to get involved.
“Every time we went out, we always had registration kits for the reading club, and I think the reading club was so successful because you didn’t have to come into the library to receive it,” she said.
Every child that signed up got a rocket to colour and decorate, and their rocket was hung up in the library with their face on it.
“They could come in and find their rocket on the wall, and everyone could fuel their rocket with reading,” said Knifton.
The library also gave out 315 books thanks to Newmont Gold and Conseil scolaire catholique de district des Grandes-Rivières sponsorships.
The library staff is putting together a story walk for the long weekend at Hersey Lake with the book What’s My Superpower? by Aviaq Johnston, as well as their fall programming.
The September schedule for library programs and activities is available online. The Lego zone is open every day until Friday, Aug. 30, at both branches, and Saturday, Aug. 31, at the main branch.
