Who knew reading could be so much fun?

The Cedar Springs Public Library ended its summer reading program Tuesday, July 26, with a carnival for all ages in Morley Park.  About 340 people enjoyed the petting zoo, inflatable water slide, bounce houses, games, face painting, music, popcorn, chips, ice cream sandwiches and drinks. The Cedar Springs Police paid a visit, and the Cedar Springs Fire Department was there to hose the kids down and keep them cool.

Karla Glerum, on staff for a year at the library, enjoyed her second summer reading program. “Our park party went very smoothly this year.  The water games were a lot of fun! I felt the carnival was a good ending to our reading program.”

Sharrel Bailey, on staff for seven months at the library, enjoyed her first summer reading program. “Seeing so many people in the park, celebrating our reading program, was very fun for me.  I saw the Police and Fire Department on hand and was especially impressed by the show of community support.”

Prizes were also given away. Ethan Eadie, grade 4 and Paige Marsman, grade 3, each won a bike.

The following kids each won a chance to win the big prizes offered Cooperative-wide: Thomas Metiva, 6th grade; Maddie Boomgaard, 3rd grade; Evie Nista, 1st grade; Hannah Reed, Kindergarten; Mumina Ciise, 7th grade. Prizes they could win include a trip to NYC for 4, including $500 in spending money and $500 for food; an overnight stay at Boyne Mountain Resort for 4, including passes to Avalanche Bay; an overnight stay for 4 at Double J Resort in Rothbury; a family 4 pack to the Cranbrooke Institute in Bloomfield Hills; a family membership to John Ball Zoo.

The library’s summer reading program had 1,297 participants this year, starting with opening day on June 13. They had 773 people sign up for the program, with 506 from ages 0 to 6th grade. Grades 7-12 and adults read a whopping 807 books, and there were over 100 prizes to give away. (Watch the August 18 Post for a special ad thanking volunteers and sponsors.)

“We could never have so many quality programs without the support of our local businesses, service organizations and individuals,” said Library Director Donna Clark. “This program is all about our community. We have tremendous support and an outpouring of cash, prizes, in-kind donations and volunteer time.  We are building our community together through our local library. It’s just heartwarming!”