When kids search for something fun and challenging to do while school is not in session, they need look no further than the Liberty Lake Municipal Library. During its summer reading program, kids are encouraged to earn prizes by reading and to attend special events designed around this year's theme of "Dig Into Reading."

Registration began mid-June, but kids can pick up a reading log up until August 10 when the program concludes. The program is open to all ages, from those who need help reading to independent readers to teens and adults.

"Literature shows us that if you don't use it, you lose it," Katie Wiykovics, children's services associate, said. "We want to keep kids reading over summer, and this is a fun way to motivate them." 

Kids are encouraged to stop by the library to sign up and grab the appropriate reading log for their age. Minutes are tracked in 15-minute segments, and when kids hit certain milestones they are eligible to claim prizes and a new book. 

Children's Services Assistant Amy Dickeson said she believes a combination of the prizes (many of which are provided by Friends of the Liberty Lake Library) and the activities keeps kids coming regularly to the library over the summer. She said those who establish good summer reading habits are more likely to keep their skills fresh for when they return to school in the fall.

"Don't wait to the last minute each day to read," Amy said. "Make a habit of reading in the morning or when you wake up. Bring books in the car when you run errands or go on a trip, unless you get car sick." 

Because this year's program is "Dig Into Reading," many of the activities and prizes go along with the underground theme. The biggest change in the summer reading program for this year is that the annual carnival is being replaced by a "Minute to Win It" family night. It will take place on Aug. 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the library and will still feature games, tickets and prizes.

The librarians said they love connecting kids with books that open the door to learning and take them on adventures.

"Books can take you anywhere in the world and even into fantasy worlds," Katie said. "There's something for everyone at the library."

Don't miss this…

Summer at the Liberty Lake Municipal Library, 23123 E. Mission Ave., includes special Thursday night family events, Friday morning activities, and Saturday afternoon craft times.  Listed below are some of the events. For more details, go to liberty lakewa.gov/library. 

Great Cookie Excavation

July 5, 10:30 a.m.

See how many chocolate chips you can dig out of a cookie.

Lego Mania

July 11 at 6:30 p.m. 

Prizes and treats awarded to those who entered an original Lego creation.

Worm Races

July 12, 10:30 a.m.

Squirt earthworms with water and watch them race around. 

Treasure Hunt

July 18, 6:30 p.m.

Follow the clues to find gold coins hidden throughout the library.

Volcanoes

July 19, 10:30 a.m.

Build several types of volcanoes and watch them erupt.

Pajama Story Time

July 25, 6:30 p.m.

Get comfy and listing to bedtime stories in your PJs.

Panning for Gold

July 26, 10:30 a.m.

See how much "gold" you can find at the library.

Minute To Win It

Aug. 1, 5 to 7 p.m.

Play games with different household items, and save up tickets to purchase prizes!

Making Fossils

Aug. 2, 10:30 a.m.

Create your own fossils using art supplies.

Family Game Night

Aug. 8, 6:30 p.m. 

Bring the entire family to try out some games.

Craft Necktie Snakes

Aug. 9, 10:30 a.m.

Create a cute, cuddly snake out of a necktie.