Library reading program in full swing

With the McCook City Library's summer reading program already in full swing, new activities and events are still being added. Under the theme, "The Magic of Reading," the reading program will introduce participants to magicians and musicians, as well as the use of newspapers in everyday life. Participants in McCook's Summer Reading Program also will have more opportunities to work with a newspaper.

The McCook Library is participating in the Omaha World-Herald's Newspaper in Education (NIE) program. The NIE "Summer Fun Challenge" is meant to keep students' skills sharp during the summer, while educating them about their community and their world.

The program will run from Aug. 4-Aug. 25, with 50 activity guides and extra 10 newspapers available at the McCook library.

The activity guide, "50 Fun Things Kids Can Do With a Newspaper," contains 50 activities children complete using a newspaper. Included with the activity guide is a signature sheet. Participating children will be required to obtain an adult's signature confirming the completion of each activity. Once all 50 activities have been completed, the child can return the signature form to the World-Herald for their prize.

A representative from the World-Herald will visit the McCook Library on Aug. 4 to help kick-off the program, providing information about the guides as well as how a newspaper is put together.

McCook Librarian Patty Hall said summer reading participants, as well as adults, are invited to the presentation. Nearly 70 children have signed up McCook's summer reading program.

Also as part of the summer reading program, the McCook Library has scheduled several performers during the week of July 21.

On Monday, July 21, Rob Halladay, a professional magician, will perform "Happy Magic," a combination of magical illusions that defy the laws of nature. Halladay's journey begins at 7 p.m. at the library.

On Thursday, July 24, the Dennis Warner Kid's Concert comes to the library at 1:30 p.m.

National Touring Recording Artist Dennis Warner will perform his energetic blend of music and humor in a special concert just for kids (ages 4-12), as well as others who like to have fun.

Halladay's and Warner's performances are sponsored by the McCook Public Library Foundation.

The final show of the week features Steve Corbitt, a regular at the Red Willow County Fair. Corbitt will share his blend of humor, magic and storytelling on Friday, July 25, at 4 p.m. at the library.

His library performance is sponsored by McCook National Bank and Sparky's Kids Club and the Red Willow County Fair Board.