PCPL Summer Reading wrap-up set for July 30

Youth Services Manager Krista Mullinnix helps a youngster during a party that kicked off the Putnam County Public Library’s Summer Reading program. The library will hold an event to wrap up the program on July 30.

Courtesy photo

Summer Reading is under way, and this year the Putnam County Public Library invites the community to celebrate its conclusion on Saturday, July 30 from 1-4 p.m.

The library has planned a day of “fun, friends and fantastic activities” for children and families. There will be a bounce house for children, activity stations, community booths and more. Free slices of pizza, donated by Papa John’s, and other light refreshments will be provided to attendees.

DePauw University’s Community Technology Enhancement Program (CTEP) will also set up a virtual reality station in the Kiwanis Room. A variety of VR experiences will be available to try out with help from CTEP’s technology assistants.

“After being limited for the past two summers due to the pandemic, we were really excited to have a normal summer reading program this year,” said Library Director Matt McClelland. “We hope that culminates at this celebration and everyone enjoys a fun afternoon of bounce houses, activities and more.”

Thanks to funding by the Friends of the Library, donations from Myers’ Market and Headley Hardware and individual donations from library supporters, the event and all of its activities are free to the public.

Summer Reading runs until July 31. Children and teens must complete a reading challenge, which can be picked up in the library or found on PCPL’s website at www.pcpl21.org/src. Adults will receive a raffle ticket for each book read throughout the summer. Raffle tickets must be filled out at the circulation desk.

“We have so enjoyed providing the kind of Summer Reading experience that our patrons are used to,” said Youth Services Manager Krista Mullinnix. “There is still time to complete your challenge. Come visit us and sign up today.”

For assistance completing Summer Reading challenges, patrons may contact the library at 653-2755 or email info@pcpl21.org.

The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.