Now that schools are closed and kids are looking for a summer adventure, they can tour the world through the many varieties of books available at the Dimmick Memorial Library's Summer Reading Program.

The program begins on Wednesday, June 20, and except for July 4, continues from 10-11 a.m. each Wednesday through August 15.

"The Summer Reading Program is where the children of the community can have a place to come each week, read and get together with friends," said program coordinator Janet Hydro. "We're going to read books, and have a discussion with anyone who wants to discuss the book. We will have paper and art supplies available if someone wants to draw a picture about a story."

All ages are welcome, although the stories are aimed at elementary school students. Parents and teenagers are invited to read to the children. The program typically attracts 10 to 20 children and their parents.

"Studies show that kids who read over the summer maintain the reading skills developed during the school year," said Hydro. "The summer-long reading campaign is designed to motivate all children to read more, so they maintain and improve their academic skills."

The mother of a 10-year-old son and a six-year-old daughter, Hydro noted, "We have been coming to the library forever, and we love it here. The kids have been coming to the library program for years and have made lifelong friends doing it.

"It's wonderful to have access to these books, to come to this beautiful historic building, and meet with librarians who have always been so kind and gracious," she said. "My children are both very good readers, I think because of the reading program."

For this year's program, Hydro will read Caldecott Medal-winning books. The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children to the artist creating the most distinguished American picture book for children. Hydro has selected three books: The Biggest Bear, One Fine Day, and The Hello, Goodbye Window. The last is a story about a little girl who loves spending time looking out the "Hello, Goodbye Window" at her grandparents' house.

The Summer Reading Program will host four special events:

July 11: Yoga with Maya. Maya Kowalcyk, RYT, will help children improve concentration and focus, stimulate their imaginations and release energy in a fun, safe environment.