Teen Summer Reading Program proclaimed a hearty success

ROCHESTER - The Rochester Public Library's Teen Summer Reading Program resulted in a total of 100,000 minutes of reading, an increase of 20 percent over last year, according to library staff.

In addition to reading, teens enjoyed a variety of activities, including decoupage, slime, bead animal crafting, button making, and creating sensory bottles.

"We have a growing group of kids ages 12-18 attending various activities including Dungeons and Dragons, Teen Movie Mondays, as well as teen advisory meetings," said Amy Lemelin, Teen Room Librarian. "They appreciate being rewarded for reading and having a space in the library to try new activities and be with their friends."

Participants who read for 120 minutes each week received a free ice cream from Golicks or a free book, and weekly drawings offered the chance to win $12 gift cards to Barnz's Movie Theater. The program concluded with a raffle featuring nine prizes, including two Owalla water bottles, an autographed Red Sox baseball, JBL headphones, Sea Dogs and Fisher Cats tickets, and a Kindle Fire.

According to Lemelin, the program's success has led to a demand for more, with teens requesting a Fall Reading Program, which the library is happy to offer. Starting Sept. 1 readers between the ages of 8 and 18 can sign up for the Teen Fall Reading Program on Beanstack (https://rplnhreads.beanstack.org/). This program will feature raffle baskets as prizes to be awarded in December.

"I enjoyed seeing so many kids using the Teen Room's resources this summer," added Lemelin. "The success of this year's Summer Reading Program is an example of Rochester's amazing teen population. The Library is committed to providing a warm, welcoming space for teens to explore, read, socialize, and learn."

For additional information, contact Amy Lemelin at amy.lemelin@rochesternh.gov.