Parents need to sign up their children for the Dolores Library Summer Reading program on May 22 at the library.
The program is part of the nationwide Fizz-Boom-Read effort focusing on the arts, science, technology, engineering, and math.
The Dolores summer reading program was expanded this year from five weeks to nine weeks. It runs every Tuesday from 1 pm - 3 pm, May 27-July 22.
The program is free, and open to elementary students. Pre-schoolers may attend but must have a parent present. Snacks are served.
Students read and are read to the first hour then participate in an activity related to the topic for the second hour, explained children's librarian Kathie Butler.
"We're not only encouraging kids to read, but also to get them to love reading," Butler said.
As part of the program, there will be a Children's Poetry Day on July 31 at the Montezuma County Fairgrounds. The reading program partners with Montezuma 4-H.
Kids in the program sign contracts to read a certain number of books or chapters over the summer, and qualify for prizes if they are successful.
"Studies show that if children are read 1,000 books before age five, they become better students," Butler said. "We focus on continuing the reading habit."
Topics to be covered include the science of plants, water properties, musical instruments, food experiments, geometry, robotics, scientific arts, and grossology.
"When kids read about something and then have an activity afterwards, they learn the practical benefits of reading and researching," Butler said.
Supplies and volunteers are needed for the reading program and donations are requested.
For a list of needed items and volunteer information call the library at 882-4127.