Summer fun starts at your local library! By Sandy Garrett, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Friday, May 22, 2009 Artist Pablo Picasso once said that, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” Children of all ages are encouraged to explore their creativity and find their inner artist at local public libraries during the 2009 Oklahoma Summer Reading Program, focusing on music and the arts. Young children aged 12 and under can "Be Creative @ Your Library" and for teens aged 13 and older it’s all about being “Yourself at Your Library.” This is how it works: * Participants pledge to read a certain number of books by the end of the summer. * Earn prizes by keeping track of the titles of books read and making a note of each visit to the library. * Visit the library to sign up and get a reading log, book bag and book mark is all it takes to get started. Younger children may need their parents’ help with signing up. New this year, the Oklahoma Department of Libraries has partnered with the Oklahoma College Savings Plan to sponsor a sweepstakes for children who participate. Parents can enter their children for a chance to win $5,000 to start a college savings fund. Plus, the winner's library also will receive $1,500. Don’t forget, many public libraries around the state offer a variety of free summer activities for children, including story times, guest performances, storyteller events, craft activities and live demonstrations. Check your library for upcoming events and seize these opportunities. Visiting a library can be fun for the entire family and summer is the perfect time to discover all that local libraries have to offer – for free! Last year, nearly 91,000 children participated in more than 3,000 summer programs offered at libraries throughout Oklahoma. Even more boys and girls are expected to join in this summer. Regardless of where your young ones read this summer, “Reading is Fundamental” offers a few tips: > Combine family activities with books > Use books to break the boredom > Have plenty of reading material around > Read aloud with children > Lead by example and read a book! I encourage you and your family to visit your public library and enjoy being creative this summer! Read to a child – the benefits last a lifetime! EDITORS: For more information, contact Shelly Hickman, State Department of Education, (405) 521-3371.