The Rochester Public Library is pleased to announce “Adventure Begins at Your Library”, the theme for this year’s annual Summer Reading Program.

The program was soft launched with a skit written by local middle school student Megan Merrigan and performed by members of the Rochester School District’s reading team and Library Assistant Casey. Following the skit, students were introduced to Beanstack, the online reading log for the Rochester Public Library, and received information on how to sign up.

Representatives from the Rochester Rotary Club and Holy Rosary Credit Union (HRCU) were present to distribute books they had purchased for students across all elementary grades throughout the district.

“As a community-focused credit union, we are committed to fostering a love of learning in our young neighbors,” said Brian Hughes, President and CEO of HRCU. “Donating books to Rochester elementary schools for summer reading is our way of investing in their future, ensuring every child has the opportunity to expand their horizons and develop a lifelong passion for reading.”

The official kickoff event for the Summer Reading Program will take place at the Rochester Public Library on Monday, June 17, from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm, featuring frozen treats and entertainment from Sages, including bubble fun and magic. For those unable to participate online, paper reading logs are available and can be returned to the Library or school in the fall.

Throughout the summer, the Library will host various activities including arts and crafts, music sessions, STEM programs, and special events such as an evening visit from the Center for Wildlife of Cape Neddick, Maine, and a morning event with Lindsey and her Puppet Pals.

“I love being in the schools to be a part of the Summer Reading Program kickoff,” said Christina Paquette, Children’s Librarian. “It’s always fun to be involved in an event that brings the community together; the bonus is seeing so much excitement for reading!”

Heidi Zollman, Curriculum Instruction Coach at SAU 54, added, “Summer reading is critical to a child’s ability to not only retain information learned the previous year but also to grow in knowledge and critical thinking skills for the coming year. We want to thank HRCU and the Rotary for sending our students off with books and promoting the importance of summer reading!”

To learn more about the Summer Reading Program, call (603) 335-7549.