The Missouri River Regional Library is simplifying its summer reading program and moving the reading log online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The summer reading program will run June 1 to Aug. 7, according to an MRRL news release.
Online registration and logging on READsquared is accessible via web browser, Apple app or Android app.
The pre-K (zero to 4 years) and children's (5-12 years) programs will be based on hours of reading. Each program will have a single prize level - a bag of themed items and three books of the participant's choice from bins at the library. Those who finish will be entered for a chance to win one of several age-appropriate raffle prizes. Names will be drawn and winners notified Aug. 10.
For the teen program (13-18 years), participants will earn a prize for every 10 hours of reading - a book or summer reading-themed swag - and an entry into the end-of-program raffle for one of five Amazon gift cards.
Adults ages 19 and older who participate will get to choose a free book after reading or listening to four titles. Those who complete eight titles will be entered into the prize drawings, in addition to earning a second book. Reading with your family for three hours counts as one title; you may read with your family for a total of six hours that count as two books. Reading MRRL's Capital Read title, "Fast Girls: A Novel of the 1936 Women's Olympic Team" by Elixe Hooper, counts as two titles. Prizes will consist of gift certificates from local establishments.
The adult program will also feature a contest in designing a bookmark. The winner will receive 50 copies of their design on bookmarks. The size for the bookmark is 2.25 by 7 inches. Artwork must be original and two-dimensional but can use any medium, from paint or stamps to computer-designed. Photography is also acceptable, as long as it is original. Only one entry is allowed per person. Bookmark designs may be entered by sending a digital version to [email protected], including the entrant's name and phone number, or by handing it in at the library's Information & Reference desk. Designs are due by Aug. 1.
Sign-up for the summer reading program starts Monday at mrrl.org. Paper logs will still be available at the library, but patrons are encouraged to use the online portal if possible.