The weather is warm and school is out – summer must finally be here!  Just in case you are wondering what to do this summer, the James Kennedy Public Library has many activities and programs to keep you busy and entertained!

"Between the Covers" is the theme for the 2012 Adult Summer Reading Program.  Read books, attend programs, and WIN prizes!  This fun program runs from June 1 to August 31 with registration beginning on June 1st.

If you are over the age of 18, you really should join.  Where else can you earn prizes just by reading or listening to a book?  Participants select an ‘alias’ and write brief reviews of the books they read (or listen to) during the summer.  The reviews are posted at the library so that others can use them to help select their next “good book”.  Reviews can be submitted on paper or online at the library’s website.  For each review you turn in, your name will be entered in a drawing for prizes.  When you sign up, you will receive book bag and a few other “goodies” for participating, and you can earn additional prizes by how many reviews you submit.  Those who submit at least 8 reviews will receive a special prize and be entered into a drawing for the “Book Lover’s Basket”.  In September, we will have a special party for anyone who submitted at least one review.

The library has planned several programs connected to this theme.  On Monday, June 4 we will be hosting a Pajama Party Kick-off.  The party starts at 7:00 pm and will include activities, snacks, beverages and prizes plus a late night movie for those who don’t want to go home!! Don’t forget to wear your pajamas (or other comfy clothes)!  To attend you must sign up for the program.

Kristin Mitchell from Little Creek Press in Mineral Point, Wisconsin will discuss the process of publishing a book on Monday, June 25 at 7:00 pm. From the first draft to the printed copy, all of the steps will be explained.

On Monday, July 16 at 7:00 pm, Mary Kenyon, the Telegraph Herald’s Coupon Queen, will present tips about couponing and just how easy it is to save money. She will help with organizing your coupons so they are handy.

Author Dale Kueter will visit the library on Tuesday, July 17 at 1:00 pm. Dale will talk about his latest book “The Smell of the Soil, Writing Your Stories.” He will also discuss the process of publishing his book. Join him for some of his fun family stories.

On Monday, August 20 at 7:00 pm Doris Wessels will lead us in yoga poses and explain this form of centering for your hectic daily life.

Three theme-related craft programs have also been planned.  On Monday, June 18 at 7:00 pm Diana and Sara will teach how to make lavender sachets. On July 2 at 7:00 pm, Diana and Sara will teach how to create an origami bird using pages from old books. On July 30 at 7:00 pm, Diana and Sara will teach  how to make a floating shelf out of an old book. Participants will begin the process of cutting and gluing the book for the shelf brackets. This craft will be finished on August 6. Participants may furnish their own hardback book or will be able to choose one from a discard stack at the class. All ages are welcome to attend these craft programs, but anyone under the age of 10 must be accompanied and assisted by an adult.  Registration is requested to ensure adequate supplies.

The ending celebration is scheduled for Sunday, September 23 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm. Join us for activities and refreshments as we “close the book” on the summer of 2012. Anyone who participated in the JKPL Adult Summer Reading Program is invited. Winners of the “Book Lover’s Basket” and other prizes will be able to pick up their prizes.

These are just the events we have planned to tie in with the adult summer reading program theme.  There are many other programs you may want to attend – you can learn about fiber crafts,  travel, recycling, driver’s safety or making a book.  There will be an inspirational book discussion, as well as our regular movies, clubs and gatherings.

Be sure to watch the paper for upcoming events, check out the library website at www.dyersville.lib.ia.us or pick up a calendar at the library so you don’t miss something you would enjoy. And be sure to read the article next week for information about the children and teen summer reading activities.