Families visiting Western Pocono Community Library Monday for the start of its Summer Reading Program were chased indoors by the pending rainstorm.

The seven-week program, whose theme is “All Together,” focuses on community, kindness, friendship and tolerance.

“We are focusing on sprinkling kindness at WPCL, because if you are just kind to others it can change the world!,” said Jessie Flickner, youth services coordinator. “This summer is packed full of fun crafts, exciting family events, and some creative STEM.”

Each week, the age 8-12 group meets Monday at 1 p.m., the baby through age 5 group meets Tuesday at 10:30 a.m., age 6-7 meets Wednesday at 1 p.m., the age 13 and up group meets Thursday at 4 p.m., and special events for all ages will be held Thursday at 6 p.m.

“I really like socializing when I come here. I like the bike day, movie day and all the activities. I don’t like the reading part,” said Eli Guglielmo, who just completed 5th grade.

Flickner read the beginning part of Lola Levine is Not Mean! to the group of about 25 participants before directing them the tables where various craft supplies await.

Guglielmo and his friends - cousins Mahlya Eitner and Collin Bentley - drew doughnuts on a square piece of white paper. Each designed and colored their unique doughnut while gathered in the Maker Space on the lower level of the library near the Walking Track.

Flickner then collected the designs to hang up in the children’s area upstairs.

“With a focus on kindness, we are using a doughnut and sprinkles decorating theme that we are excited about sharing with everyone. It is something everyone can relate to and it is bright and colorful for the library,” Flickner said.

Flickner has a doughnut-themed outfit she wore for the youngest group on Tuesday.

“Last summer was super fun dressing up as different under the sea animals or professionals; however, this summer will be more about positive vibes,” she said.

Heightened Interest

Ashley Burney, program coordinator, said the library staff has seen a lot of interest and parents signed their kids up earlier this year than previous years.

“This year, there are about 270 kids signed up. We had about 200 last year,” she said.

The summer reading program is an integral part of the library because its helps students retain their reading abilities.

“It is a known fact that Summer Slide happens, and some students are susceptible to losing a reading level or two over the summer if they are not actively reading,” said Patti Weiss, library director. “WPCL can help avoid that slide by providing a fun and engaging opportunity for children of all ages.”

Thursdays are for everyone

While each session is devoted to a specific age group, with books and activities geared toward that age level, Thursday evenings are for the entire family to participate together.

“All of our special events are on Thursday evenings. This gives an opportunity for everyone to attend,” said Weiss.

The list includes Talewise educational program; outside art exploration night; “Touch-a-Truck” with emergency vehicles and work vehicles; crazy science night; bike day, where kids bring their bikes to decorate with streamers and flags and their helmets to wear; and family picnic.

Burney is looking forward to the June 29 Touch-a-Truck event and July 13 Bike Day.

Flickner is super excited for the July 20 Boxcar Drive-In showing of Paw Patrol: The Movie.

“I created a fun doughnut car that I will be using and I am excited to see what other families come up with” using a box or laundry basket to decorate, she said.

Teamwork and Community

Weiss complimented Flickner and Burney’s great teamwork and all the effort they have put into the planning and preparations.

“The staff has really upped their game this year and planned a great program, using both inside and outside areas. There is bound to be something for everyone to enjoy,” Weiss said.

Flickner is excited for the “expand your world” week, which includes a bridge challenge on Monday, instruments across the border on Tuesday, passport around the world on Wednesday, painted paper weaving on Thursday afternoon and Bike Day Thursday evening.

Weiss can’t wait to see you and your family.

“I am looking forward to seeing all the young faces coming to the library to have fun, meet new friends and maybe learn something over the summer. When the library is busy and people are all around, it is the best feeling ever,” she said.

Summer reading started June 12 and goes until July 27 at the library. Its address is 131 Pilgrim Way, Brodheadsville.

Lunches at Park

In previous years, the Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Network handed out brown bag lunches to children at the library during lunchtime.

However, this year PVEN limited the location to just pavilion 1 at Chestnuthill Park.

According to PVEN’s website, lunches are available through Aug. 18 for those 18 and under. Meals must be eaten on site.