I remember spending summer afternoons in my hometown, attending reading programs in our public library. It was great fun to go there and read books about all kinds of adventures and mysteries that sparked my imagination. Little did I know then that one day I would be the secretary of state and have the distinct honor of overseeing the Missouri State Library.
This summer, the Missouri State Library is once again encouraging young Missourians to participate in summer reading through two programs that allow young readers to become summer sleuths: “Get a Clue @ Your Library” and “YNK (You Never Know) @ Your Library.”
Young Missourians looking for a fun way to stay busy this summer should sign up for “Get a Clue @ Your Library” to investigate the stacks and uncover the mysteries in their own hometown library. “Get a Clue @ Your Library” focuses on mystery novels and detective stories, and we hope to build on last year’s successful enrollment of more than 136,000 Missourians.
“Get a Clue @ Your Library” encourages young students to read regularly by providing them with rewards when they reach reading milestones. Similarly, middle school and high school students can participate in “YNK @ Your Library,” which is designed to help older students stay involved in reading for pleasure. Both “Get a Clue @ Your Library” and “YNK @ Your Library” highlight mystery novels and stories that should put the detective skills of all the participants to the test.
Participants who reach their personal reading goals will earn rewards and will be eligible to win additional prizes. To learn more details and to find your local library, please visit our Web site at www.sos.mo.gov/SummerReading.
Although summer sports and family fun can keep kids busy, please don’t forget the importance of summer reading. Reading books opens up a world of imagination and information for kids while keeping their minds engaged over the long summer break away from school. So, in between trips to the swimming pool and during long family car trips, encourage the young people around you to stop by your local library to do some sleuthing of their own this summer.