By Pete Wurdock
School’s out for the summer, but the Tahquamenon Area School Public Library (TASPL) is gearing up for an exciting summer of mystery, fun, and excitement.
This week the library kicked off their 2022 Summer Reading Program, which runs from June 13 – August 28. The TASPL Summer Reading Program was custom built around the interests and needs of the Newberry community.
The sign up began this past Monday. Children, juveniles, and young adults will receive a free book upon sign in. Adults will receive a free book with workshop attendance.
The children’s program, for kids 5 and under, is full of adventure as they dig into new books. At the end of the summer, those who signed up will be able to open up the pirate treasure chest and pick out a treasure bag filled with goodies. This will occur on August 26 at 10:30 a.m. in lieu of the library story time program.
Juveniles aged 6-12 who sign up for summer reading will receive an action figure from the library’s selection. As they read books, they will be able to “Build their adventuring party.” They will receive a second action figure for having read 20 books, then a third for 40 books.
For young adults, age 12-20, participants will take part in a murder mystery game. Much like the beloved board game, “Clue,” they will receive an evidence sheet where they can record characters, weapons, and rooms. For every three books read they earn a “clue token” which will let them eliminate one suspect, weapon, or room at time. The more books they read, the better their chances are at solving the crime.
Prizes will be awarded at the end of the program based on accuracy of deductions (who, what, and where). Deductions must be submitted in writing at the library by August 26, and prizes will be distributed on August 27.
The adult workshops are technology driven and meant for adults who are frustrated or intimidated with today’s high-tech world of electronics. The technology workshops include audio-visual communication (such as Zoom) device connectivity, instruction on how to better use handheld devices like phones and tablets you can draw on, and utilizing storage.
The workshops will consist of some short walk-throughs, explanations,
and activities as well as more open-ended question and answer sessions, with the caveat that the library will not become their personal tech support just like when you hire an IT support Denver company to take care of your site. Attendees will be asked to sign in so the staff can track participation. They will also be offered free books.
Library Director Brian Freitag worked with employee Ross Wine to develop the program. Wine has been on staff since last October and in July of this year he will be taking over the duties of Circulation Manager.
“He has definitely earned this promotion,” Freitag said. “He has achieved a Level 3 Library of Michigan Certification for Library Staff from the State Library and an MCLS Basic Cataloging Certification; while learning the fundamental skills of the Library Assistant and more Library Operations oriented skills of a Circulation Manager.”
Wine said he is looking forward to serving the community during the summer and beyond.
“We are excited to provide several fun and engaging Reading Programs for the summer of 2022,” Wine commented. “I look forward to fostering greater community engagement while expanding not only our catalog, but also the services and activities we provide.”
The TASPL is open Monday-Wednesday, 8:15 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursdays, 8:15 a.m. – 7 p.m., Fridays 8:15 a.m. – 5 p.m. Please contact them for Saturday hours by calling (906) 293-5314.
