is the theme for our Summer Reading Program 2008

What is it: Louise Rapoport Fenster Summer Reading Program
Where is it: Portsmouth Public Libraries (Main - Children's, Churchland, Cradock, Manor)
When is it: June 23rd, 2008 to August 4th, 2008
Who can attend: Any child who wants to READ fun books and EARN cool prizes over the summer.
How do I: Register in person at any of the branches. Then READ......
Why would I: Because it's FUN! You can earn FREE PRIZES! See Free Programs!

Download and/or Print your Summer Reading Calendars here!

Summer reading programs why bother?
Here is why!

Reading gets better when you practice it!
Kids lose school-year reading gains over the summer if they don't read (especially disadvantaged kids)!
Kids who attended a summer library program read better than those in a summer camp program!
Kids in a summer library program are more likely to read at their grade level or above than their non-participating peers! 
Kids in a summer program who visited the library and did free reading made more reading test gains than those in a traditional language arts summer program! 

Stephen Krashen, author of The Power of Reading (Libraries Unlimited, 1993), concludes that reading is the most powerful tool available for building vocabulary as well as the ability to read, write, spell, and comprehend. In addition, voluntary reading (such as summer reading programs) has a major impact on children's literacy progress. For example, in 38 of 41 studies, students using voluntary reading did as well or better in comprehension tests than students given only traditional skill-based reading instruction.

Free, Convenient, Fun Program that lets you; Earn Free Prizes, See Free Programs!