The Fairfield Library officially wrapped up the Summer Reading Program “Libraries Rock” on Wednesday, August 1, with an awards program celebrating reading for all (469 children and accompanying adults) and special efforts by three exceptional young readers. The Libraries Rock Program began with every participating child setting a goal for their own summer reading. In turn, during the Award Ceremony each child who participated in the program received a certificate and every child who completed their individual reading goal got a second certificate.

There were three categories based loosely on age and reading level: Family Reading Group for younger children not yet reading on their own, Independent Reader Group for children able to read by themselves, and Independent Reader Advanced for those whose reading ability allowed for longer books (think ‘chapter divisions’).

Congratulations in the Family Reader Group go to Lincoln Hart whose family read 104 books together. Gracie Wilson took home the prize for Independent Reader, having read 123 books by herself. Finally the Independent Reader Advanced Award was taken home by Deris Talbert who read 21 long books. Each of the winners received a Nook Tablet that can be used by them to read eBooks, watch videos, play games, or do anything that any tablet can do.

We want to especially thank Avery Grant, owner of The Shops at Peridot, Mary King, LMT (massages and other spa treatments at Peridot), and The Fairfield Library Association Board of Directors for donating the Nook Tablets. Additionally, each child at the ceremony on Wednesday was given a prize packet containing a gift card for a cheeseburger and apple slices provided by the local McDonald’s, and a free ice cream donated by the local Sonic. Additional items, like stickers, pencils, and other kids’ items from the library staff were in the bags.

Library Director, Gary Wiggins, wants to express his deep appreciation to all the guest readers who made the program a success; his gratefulness to his very competent staff, Mary King (Children’s Program Coordinator) and Jennifer Kilkenny; and most of all to the mothers and family members who made it possible for the children to read and play with us this summer.

What is next at the library? BOOK BINGO – a reading game for all ages (and a prize at the end).

Don’t forget to check us out on our Facebook and our website: (Facebook.com/FairfieldTXLibrary) every week for fun-filled photos of the weekly Story Time, and also visit our website for additional information and latest updates (https://www.fairfieldtxlibrary.org/).

RECEIVING A NOOK TABLET during the Summer Reading Award Ceremony at Fairfield Library is (left-right): Gracie Wilson, Lincoln Hart, and Deris Talbert. Gracie read 123 books by herself. Lincoln’s family together read 104 books. And Deris read 21 long books. Great job! (Photo Submitted)