Families can participate in hands-on activities
at the Magic House. They also can tour the "Making America's
Music: Rhythm, Roots and Rhyme" exhibit.
Another major feature of the summer program
is a chance to view via videoconference the work of noted
illustrator Russell Walks. His program will be Thursday, June
15, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
The show will be at the Central Library's videoconference
center. You have to reserve a seat by calling (314) 539-0380.
Walks has worked for Marvel, D.C. and Dark Horse
comics. He's done illustration for Golden Books, Warner Books,
Star Wars Insider and Lucasfilms Ltd. He's also created Star
Wars and Harry Potter trading cards for Topps.
The overall theme for the 2006 Summer Reading
Program is "Paws to Read." That means animals will play a
big part in the reading program.
For instance, the St. Louis Zoo will present
a 45-minute show, "Paws. Claws, Scales and Tails-LIV" at individual
branches.
The Missouri Department of Conservation's "It's
Where You Live" show about animals also will go to branches
during the summer. These shows last one hour.
Other traveling events for branches will be
by the S&S Farms Exotic Petting Zoo, storyteller Sherry Norfolk
and another St. Louis Zoo show, "Wild About Reading."
For the schedule of these branch shows, pick
up a schedule at your neighborhood branch or visit www.slpl.org/events/calendar/asp.
The reading incentive program features a variety
of gifts and a chance at Cardinal tickets. The Kids Division
grand prize for reading will be an aquarium kit. The grand
prize for Teen Division readings is a Dell computer package.
The
St. Louis Public Library's summer reading program will include
bus trips to "Family Nights at the Magic House." There are
also incentives to encourage city kids to read throughout
the summer.