NEWPORT--Stokely Memorial Library's summer reading program for children will kick off this Thursday. The program will begin Thursday, June 4, and continue through Thursday, July 16, with programs beginning at 11 a.m. each week.
Dr. John Chambers of Blue Ridge Veterinary Services and Library Friends sponsor the event. Rewards for the readers are being provided by Bojangle's and McDonald's restaurants.
Dr. John Chambers will bring a friend, a horse named Rudy, to the first program on Thursday.
On June 11, members of the William Cocke Chapter of the National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) will present a Flag Day program.
Then, on Thursday, June 18, Julie LaFleur will present the program. Diane Driskill will present the program on June 25.
L.C. Gregg and the Kiwanis Club of Newport will lead the July 2 program. Michelle Layman will be in charge of the July 9 program.
Barbara and Tracy Shelton will lead the program on July 16, which will also be the last program and will include a pizza party.
"We encourage all children to come join the fun," said Library Director Meschelyn Barrett. "Children do not have to attend the weekly programs to participate in the summer reading program, but all children are welcome to attend as many programs as possible. We have several participants every year who are unable to attend all of the weekly events."
Registration begins June 4 for the program. Participants will be given a log sheet, and after reading 10 books, they return to the library and present their reading list to receive a reward.
Barrett reminds parents of the importance of reading, and how children need to continue to read during summer months when school is out of session.
"We have been pleased with the number of children who have participated in the program in the past, and we expect great participation again this year," Barrett said.
"We would like to thank the sponsors, the prize donors, and the volunteers for making our program successful," she added.
For more information about the program, call the library at (423) 623-3832.