The Summer Reading program at the Jones County Library continues into July with a full schedule of programs.
The library’s bulletin board is filled with 1,106 names of youngsters enrolled in the program with numerous prizes waiting to be awarded at the end of the summer. June has been a busy month with the summer programs in addition to the library’s usual activities.
Summer Reading kicked off June 4 with blow-up slides, popsicles and games. The Gray Garden Club helped with making flower arrangements and information about pollinators in the Butterfly Garden June 11.
Father’s Day was celebrated with a fun game day June 14, and June 17 was a day filled with a focus on space with a visit from Steven Smith from NASA and the Georgia College and State University Star Lab.
Smith ‘Zoomed in’ and talked to youngsters and their families about the next visit to the moon that will include the first woman and first person of color.
He explained the mission will include establishing a habitat on the moon to prepare astronauts to live in space for days, weeks and even months during the journey to Mars.
Smith explained a trip to Mars will take an estimated three years, including the six-to-eight-month flight there and the necessity to wait for the up to 18 months for a window to open for the return flight back.
Following his presentation, he answered questions from youngsters in attendance. The day concluded with participants building their own space habitats from recycled materials and took turns visiting the Star Lab.
June literally concluded on a ‘high note’ with a preview of Jones County Performing Arts’ production of “The Lion King Jr.” June 25.
The July schedule includes a July 2 visit from Pete the Cat and Curious George with story time fun and book give aways, followed by a Recycled Fashion Show July 9 at 2 p.m.
In preparation of the show, the library craft table will be open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with recycled materials available for anyone wanting to participate.
The fashion show will include judges and prizes.
Summer Reading events for the remainder of the month feature a July 16 art demonstration by Tia Litke from Bramble Bottom Farms in Haddock that will conclude with participants making a work of art.
Matthew Forest from GCSU will end the summer program July 23 with screen printing and art demonstrations. Information for all events are posted on the Jones County Library Facebook page.
Summer reading program sign-ups are still taking place at the library every day, which is located at 146 Railroad Street in Gray.
Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
The phone number for the library is 478-986-6626.
