Summer Reading Programs - by Emily R.

Montgomery County Libraries

Summer is here! 

As a kid, I was a big nerd (ok, so I still am) and I always looked forward to the library's summer reading program.  This area has very well funded libraries, and the summer programs and events can be amazing.  Last year I took my kids to see a dog trick show, meet farm animals, see acting groups and more.  It is easy to sign up for the library's reading program, either online or at the library and it looks like this year's prize is a lunch bag.  But, this is probably the least exciting summer reading opportunity.

B&O Railroad Museum

Last year, my son and I discovered two amazing programs.   The first is through the B&O railroad museum in Baltimore. You can print out a reading journal from their website http://www.borail.org/Summer-reading.aspx and then read 10 books about trains before your visit to the museum.  The reading journal has suggestions, but you are free to pick your own titles.  The prize is picking out a book, under a certain dollar amount, from the gift shop.  What's even better?  During the summer, if you show your military ID you get in free as part of the Blue Star Museums program.  This was perfect for my son, a train enthusiast, even at age 3.

Montgomery County Agricultural Fair

he other amazing program we stumbled upon was through the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair.  Most,

if not all, of the libraries will have a special event in July where you can come and meet the 4H fair royalty and a farm animal.  You may need to get tickets in advance, depending on your library, but this is worth it.  The event was great with learning segments, crafts, petting a goat, and my son received a great goody bag with all sorts of animal themed art supplies.  Also in his goody bag: a card for the fair's summer reading program.  After reading 5 books about farm animals, we visited the children's area at the fair and my son received coupons for a free soda (we opted for lemonade), a free ice cream cone and a free fair ride.  It was the perfect way to make a day at the fair extra fun, without the extra cost.  Kids as young as 2 are allowed to participate, and if you can't make it to a library event, you can stop by the fair office to pick up a card to track your reading on.

Has anyone else found a summer reading program they just love?