Monticello library offers wide range of programs for Summer Reading

     Plans are in full swing at the Monticello Public Library as they prepare for the Summer Reading Program, which kicks off on June 1 and ends Aug. 14.

     This year’s theme is: “Reading Colors Your World.” The library staff have lots of fun events and activities planned for all ages throughout the summer.

     The SRP encompasses four different age groups/levels:

     • Early literacy for 6 years and under

     • Kids 6 to 12 years

     • Teens

     • Adults

     Last year, due to the pandemic, the SRP was conducted online through an app called Readsquared. Library Director Michelle Turnis said they plan to offer the reading log again through the app. Those who prefer a paper copy can also stop in the library and pick it up.

     “We’re not doing a Bingo card,” Turnis stipulated. “It’s a reading log.”

     Depending on the age of the reader, you will either be asked to log the number of books you’ve read per day or the number of minutes in a day.

     In addition, Readsquared will ask readers to complete various activities through the app to earn appoints toward prizes. Once you reach a certain number of points, you’ll be entered into a drawing for various prizes.

     Some of the great prizes donated by local and area businesses for the SRP this year include: a gift box from Monticello Canoe Rental, a gift box from Whiffle Tree Mercantile, movie night baskets with gift certificates to Theisen’s and Fareway, books, various gift certificates to local businesses, a certificate to the Creative Adventure Lab in Dubuque, a certificate to the Drive On Main in Anamosa, a certificate to the Be Strong Fitness & Yoga, and more. There is something for everyone.

     What would Summer Reading be without the fun programs?

     Depending on the weather, all of the programs will take place outdoors this summer to allow participants to social distance and feel comfortable attending. Beginning the week of June 7, the weekly activity bags will still be available for kids, teens, and adults.

     Other family activities include:

     • Summer Story Time on Fridays, June 4, 11, 18 and 25 at 10 a.m.

     • Colorpalooza on June 16, at 10 a.m. at the fairgrounds. Kids are encouraged to wear old clothes that can get dirty.

     • Jones County Naturalist Michele Olson on June 23, at 10 a.m. outside the library.

     • Big Bang Bubbles on June 30 at 10 a.m. at the fairgrounds.

     • Blank Park Zoo on July 7 at the fairgrounds. A story time will be held at 10 a.m., with a limit of 25 participants. The family program starts at 11 a.m.

     • Jones County Naturalist Michele Olson on July 14, at 10 a.m. outside the library.

     Tween/teen programs:

     • June 10 at 2 p.m.

     • June 17, 24, July 8, 15, and 29 at 3 p.m.

     • Interactive movies on June 22 and July 27 at 7 p.m. (“Napoleon Dynamite” and “The Sandlot”)

     • Pool party on Aug. 10 from 8 to 10 p.m.

     Summer Reading activity calendars can also be picked up at the library.

     The Monticello library is fully open following the pandemic. They are operating under normal hours: Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

     “We’re very excited,” commented Turnis of bringing the “normal” Summer Reading Program back for the community. “We’ve really missed people. we welcome everyone back inside the library.”

     By early June, the library’s new seating options will be available to the public inside.

     “Come in and hang out,” urged Turnis.

     For questions about the SRP or to register for events, contact the library at 319-465-3354.