Our Opinion: Check out library's summer reading program

News Tribune editorial

Read during the summer?

The idea might cause different reactions.

With the school year coming to an end, students may wonder if we're serious about the suggestion to continue reading.

Adults, on the other hand, might be looking forward to summer vacations and the opportunity to enjoy new releases collectively known - even in land-locked Missouri - as "beach reading."

Summer reading programs hosted by the Missouri River Regional Library begin today and continue through Aug. 31. Three separate reading programs - for children, teens and adults - will be offered.

Why join a summer reading program?

An obvious answer is participants in each category will be eligible for prizes.

But, more important, reading is valuable and enjoyable.

Much of the high-tech communication - texting, e-mail, Facebook - popular among young people is nothing more than reading and writing. Some social media, including Twitter, also encourage brevity, defined as "the soul of wit" centuries ago by Shakespeare's Polonius in "Hamlet."

Also, in the absence of a required reading list, participants may choose materials that pique their interest, stir the imagination or hone skills.

For adults, the library has introduced a novel - pardon the pun - idea. Adult participants may borrow one of five sketchbooks and add a written entry or illustration.

Sketchbook topics include: Words of wisdom; color and art; the natural world; books and reading; and travel.

The summer reading programs kickoff at 6 p.m. today with an event at the main library, 214 Adams St.

Check it out.