“Oceans of Possibilities” Encourages Reading for All Ages
Massanutten Regional Library’s annual Summer Reading Program returns June 6, 2022 and runs through July 31, 2022 with the goal of encouraging thousands of Valley residents to read alongside MRL this summer. Themed “Oceans of Possibilities,” the free reading incentive program takes place at all seven MRL branches and includes special events throughout the Valley.
Initially designed to combat the learning and reading skills loss experienced by many children during the summer school holidays, MRL’s Summer Reading Program now focuses on encouraging children and adults to read all summer long as part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Participants may sign up for free at mrlib.org/srp and log their reading through READsquared, an online tracking program which also includes a free app. Once registered, participants are eligible for prize rewards and drawings and are invited to attend special events for all ages throughout the summer, thanks to generous support from local business partners.
Some featured children’s events in this year’s program include six live Didgeridoo concerts across the Valley by Didgeridoo Down Under, “Free Fridays” admission to local entertainment venues, STEM and art activities, special Story Times, and “Family Flicks,” free family-friendly movies at Central Library in downtown Harrisonburg.
Adult events this summer include a program which examines modern Russia, Vladimir Putin, and the historical circumstances surrounding invasion of Ukraine; a program featuring sound artist Diane Balloon who will share the work she created as an artist-in-residence at Shenandoah National Park; and an introduction to genealogy program designed to educate the public on how to begin searching for ancestors in their family tree. Central Library will also offer “Cinema @ Central,” free Saturday afternoon movies this summer.
MRL’s Summer Reading Program receives support from dozens of local businesses and organizations, and is made financially possible through generous support from the following sponsors: Kiwanis Club of Harrisonburg, F&M Bank, Summit Community Bank, Rockingham Insurance, LD&B Insurance and Financial Services, BotkinRose PLC, and DuPont Community Credit Union. Complete details on Summer Reading Program can be found at mrlib.org/srp.
