The Winslow Public Library will host its first summer reading kick-off party since 2019, as it launches a slew of new engaging programming for children, teens and adults, headed by its new programming staff.
The library kicked off this year’s summer reading program, on June 16. This summer’s theme, Level Up at Your Library, is all about play for both kids and adults – think games, puzzles, mazes, scavenger hunts, and more. On the 16th, patrons can sign up for the reading programs and participate in a variety of games and activities, include pieces from the Children’s Discovery Museum Mobile Museum, and enjoy snacks.
Children’s Area patrons can look forward to steady and regular programming, including a regular weekly Littles Story Time started earlier this month on Wednesdays at 10 am.
For older kids looking for more to do this summer, they’ll have the Big Kids Summer Club, running as a drop-in session on Mondays from 4 – 5:30 p.m., starting June 23 with rotating games and activities.
Kids will learn about the aerodynamics of flight by creating their own paper airplanes and testing their designs on June 25, part of a new STEAM series for school-aged kids, led by one of our amazing volunteers.
The talented Mr. Gene, a retired science teacher and children’s librarian, leads a monthly story time throughout the summer, with engaging hands-on learning about topics like light and color, magnetism and seed germination.
With the hiring of two new staff members, this is the first time the library has had designated staff for all-ages programming.
“The library staff is excited to welcome Catie and Matthew to the library,” Library Director Lisa Auriemma said. “Having staff whose primary focus is programming is important for a small library. Our patrons have already started to see the benefit of our new staff’s creativity and work ethic.”
Adult and Teen Services Coordinator Matthew Gregoire was hired in April. He studied writing, publishing, and history at Saint Joseph’s College and brings experience working as both a freelance writer and a personal care assistant.
“Ever since childhood, I’ve loved exploring stories and the ways they can bring us together and help us to grow. The public library has an essential role in supporting and facilitating this process, and I’m so glad to be a part of it in Winslow,” said Gregoire. “It’s been a joy to meet our patrons, and I’m excited to start hosting programs which give the community a space to gather, share, and learn.”
Children’s Services Coordinator, Catie Joyce-Bulay was hired in May and brings nearly two decades of experience working with children of all ages as a speech therapist. She has also worked for the Children’s Discovery Museum and as a freelance writer.
“Working as Winslow’s children’s librarian feels like a dream job,” said Joyce-Bulay, who moved to the area shortly before the pandemic. “It’s been so wonderful meeting the kids, and I’ve already got a bunch of fun ideas for the fall I can’t wait to share.”
Winslow’s children’s summer reading program works a little differently than most. When children, ages 3-18 come in to sign up, they are given an activity tracker with a list of 15 activities ranging from reading, to crafting, to a family walk. Once they complete it, they can turn it in for their first prize bag. Kids can complete up to four trackers for a total of four prize bags loaded with fun goodies.
Each week during the 10-week program, kids can also pick up a new take-home craft bag and discover a new self-serve activity.
The teen and adult summer reading programs require participants to read 10 books total. Adults must read at least two books from the Maine Humanities Council reading list, all of which can be found at the library.
Prizes were generously donated by 23 area businesses.
The Winslow Public Library is located at 136 Halifax Street. Library summer hours are M-Th, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and, starting in July, also Fridays, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. As always, library programs are free. For details, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or sign up on our website for our newsletter.
For more information contact Library Director Lisa Auriemma at 207-872-1978.
Responsible journalism is hard work!
It is also expensive!
If you enjoy reading The Town Line and the good news we bring you each week, would you consider a donation to help us continue the work we’re doing?
The Town Line is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit private foundation, and all donations are tax deductible under the Internal Revenue Service code.
To help, please visit our online donation page or mail a check payable to The Town Line, PO Box 89, South China, ME 04358. Your contribution is appreciated!
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!