Rolling Hills builds reading skills with summer challenge

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The Rolling Hills Library is building a new library and reading skills this summer with their Summer Reading Program, "The Building Readers" program.

"Summer is a nice time; a lot of people have some extra time to read," the branch manager of the North Belt Rolling Hills Library, Kelly Morris, said. "It's especially important for kids, maybe who have some downtime between school. You don't want to lose those reading skills."

The program challenges readers of all ages to complete 10 books from June 1 to July 31. The challenge also includes activities like walking a dog, going for a bike ride or visiting a library branch.

"We're asking for people to read 10 books, or we do allow people to do a combination of reading books and activities," Morris said. "We understand that some people take longer to read or read longer books or maybe you just have a lot of things going on during the summer. So we kind of try to add some flexibility in there."

Those who complete the challenge will receive rewards and be entered into a drawing for a grand prize. Prizes include a variety of items including free books, gift baskets, Big Sky Donuts coupons, St. Joseph Mustangs baseball tickets, toys and more.

The Building Readers program goes from June 1 to July 31. In addition to the reading challenge, the Rolling Hills Library will host several fun and educational events over the summer, including the Orrick Acres Petting Zoo, EpicStyle Reptiles, the Fishin' Magician and more.

Participants can log their read books using a paper log that can be picked up from the library, or through the Beanstack app starting June 1.

For a complete list of Rolling Hills' summer activities, visit the library's website at rhcl.org.