TF library kicks off summer program

The first week of June's kickoff for the Thompson Falls Public Library's summer reading program and contest had a good turn out according to librarian Crystal Buchanan. Sign-up began June 1 with 89 readers, but she hopes this summer will surpass last year's enrollment of 109 readers.

Participants only need to sign up with a parent or guardian, and library accounts must be current with no existing dues. The program is targeted toward children age 4 through eighth graders. For every week that personal goals are reached participants can fill out a raffle ticket for a chance to win one of the many prizes or Kindles. The variety of prizes were donated by Friends of the Thompson Falls Public Library and the Kindles were donated by the Elks Lodge. This year a mystery prize drawing has been added for anyone who doubles their weekly goal. There is a special raffle ticket for the mystery prize. The program will run from through July 30. "So, it is not too late to sign up." Buchanan said.

The prize drawing will be held on Wednesday, August 12. "We will call all prize winners and post a list of the winners at the library," she said.

Another new feature at the library this summer is the scanners. The two scanners can be used for transferring photos to digital with color and imaging improvement options. This scanner can be used for historical documents as well. The other scanner digitizes old film, such as 8mm movies. Buchanan said this "Memory Lab" will be exciting for Sanders County history" Patrons interested in using the equipment are asked to call ahead to schedule a time for use as there are no guarantees that scanners will be available or staffing assistance, for walk-ins.

Every other Saturday the library offers a story time where children are welcome to come listen to readings, as staffing permits. This day is recommended for ages 4-10. But Sara Czerwinski, the library assistant, said all children are welcome and there is a Tiny Tots Story Time every other Wednesday, also as staffing permits. That day is available for ages 1-5. There are other reading programs for preschool aged children. For the younger patrons, programs include Board Books for Babies, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. Czerwinski also said that at least once a month along with story time there will be a kid's craft.

For more information regarding the scanners or the summer programs contact the Thompson Falls Public Library at (406) 827-3547.

BOOK REPORTS WANTED!

Patrons who read books during the reading program and write a book report may have their report randomly chosen by the Ledger and printed in the newspaper. A form will be provided at the library for the younger students to fill out and write at least three complete sentences. Older students will be challenged to write longer reports on their own.