~ Mesa Public Library is encouraging people of all ages to join in on the countywide Summer Reading Program, June 1 through Aug. 1. This year's theme is "All Together Now," focusing on diversity, unity and friendship.

"Most people don't realize our summer reading programs are open to adults as well as children, and this year's theme represents that," said Polly Bonnett, Mesa Library Director. "Reading over the summer is vital for children to keep up their reading fluency and comprehension skills."

To kick off the program, there will be events at all three Mesa Library branches on June 1 where library patrons can register and contribute to a community art project. Participants can earn online badges and log their reading hours with every minute spent reading equaling one point. Prizes for all ages include restaurant coupons, Arizona State Parks passes, Phoenix Mercury tickets and free books when they log 250, 500, 750 and 1000 points. Those who finish the program with 1000 points will be entered for numerous raffle prizes.

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Studies have shown that students who participate in a summer reading program have better reading skills at the end of the third grade and score higher on standardized tests than those who do not. Reading just five books over the summer can prevent summer reading loss which is cumulative - by the end of 6th grade, children who consistently lose reading skills over the summer will be two years behind their classmates.

Registering for Mesa Public Library's Summer Reading Program is a fun and smart way to start the summer with details available soon at mesalibrary.org/summerreading.

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