The Center Moriches Free Public Library is currently promoting their summer reading clubs while also giving word about the countywide summer tour available to all patrons.

“Summer is a great time to relax, unwind, and check out what your local library has to offer,” said library director Marcie Litjens. “Your library card unlocks new adventures when you check out books, sign up for programs, learn new skills, and access digital resources.”

The Summer Reading Club, she noted, is a big incentive for many people to come into the library and reacquaint themselves with their services.

After a successful program last year, Litjens said, the 2024 Suffolk Library Tour returned with an added twist. Anyone with a free Suffolk Summer Tour booklet can visit public libraries all around Suffolk County any time from July 1 through Aug. 31.

When they visit, they will be tasked with finding each library’s special artifact and then locate their stamp station to receive a stamp in their booklet.

At five, 15, and 25 library visits, participants will be entered into fun raffles. At their 25th library, they will officially be a Summer Tour Library Explorer and receive a special commemorative patch (while supplies last).

Booklets will be handed out at the children’s, teen and reference departments beginning July 1.

SUMMER CLUBS YOU CAN JOIN

Children’s Club: Let your library card take you on an adventure this summer. Children from birth through entering kindergarten can share books to receive a special prizes after listening to 10, 20 and 30 books. Older children entering Grades 1 through 6 will read independently (or with help) and earn a special prize after reading for four hours, eight hours and 12 hours. Reading records must be recorded no later than Saturday, Aug. 19.

Teen Club: Read for your chance to win a Camping Adventure Gift Basket! When you join the teen reading club and log your summer reading, you will earn the chance to win some great gift cards. If you finish six books by Aug. 17, you will receive a completion prize and be entered into the grand prize raffle! Receive a welcome bag with club-themed prizes just for entering. 

Adult Club: Feeling adventurous? Join the Adult Summer Reading Club. For every book you read, you’ll get the chance to win fantastic gift cards. After July 1, you will receive a fun summer prize for reading just one book and showing us your updated Center Moriches Free Public Library card! If you read six books by Aug. 17, you’ll be entered into our grand prize raffle! the grand prize this year will be a Happy Camper Gift Basket—remember, every season is camping season!

“Our Summer Reading Program is a much-anticipated event every year,” said children’s librarian Caitlin Sprague, of why to join a club. “The Summer Reading Club can spark a child’s lifelong habit of reading, helps children keep up their reading skills in the summer months, and draws reluctant readers to love books.”

The more the children read, she added, the more prizes they can earn all summer long.