MONTCLAIR, NJ — A pair of free family-friendly events will kick off the 2022 Summer Reading season at the Montclair Public Library. This annual period, recognized by libraries nationwide, promotes literacy during a time when children and teens are out of school and may not otherwise be maintaining their reading skills. Adults are also welcome to participate in summer reading.
The kickoff events are:
SUMMER READING EXTRAVAGANZA (OUTDOORS)
Saturday, June 25, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Main Library, 50 S. Fullerton Avenue, Montclair
Sign up for summer reading at the event and get a chance to spin our prize wheel. In addition, enjoy a 24-foot slide, bouncy house, and two special performances:
Giant Bubbles with Mr. Zoom Balloons – 11:10 a.m.
Be amazed as gigantic floating bubbles, 10 times the normal size, defy the law of gravity.
Whales, Sails, and Dolphin Tales! with Housel Fitness – 12:50 p.m.
This interactive read-aloud will get everyone moving with snippets of well-loved stories followed by an ocean activity game and plenty of dancing.
Free; no registration required to attend event. Rain or shine. Generously supported by the Montclair Public Library Foundation and First Congregational Church.
SUMMER READING CELEBRATION WITH ROCKNESS MUSIC (OUTDOORS)
Saturday, July 9, 2–3:15 p.m.
Bellevue Avenue Branch, 185 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair
Enjoy a fun concert for kids by Rockness Music (2–2:45 p.m.) followed by sweet treats, temporary tattoos, and a craft.
Free; no registration required to attend event. Weather permitting, rain date TBD. Generously supported by the Montclair Public Library Foundation.
Whether or not they attend the kickoff events, participants can sign up to track reading from June 20 through August 6 via Beanstack, a website and app. Visit montclairlibrary.org/src to get started.
Children and teens will log by days read, while adults will log by books read. Anyone who logs their reading will be eligible for milestone prizes and/or prize drawings throughout the summer. Prizes for all ages will include gift cards to various local Montclair businesses.