Library recognizes summer readers

At right are ribbon winners: Luke Younglbook and Audry Rhyne. They are preschoolers who had books read to them.

On Saturday, Sept. 8, 33 children were recognized by the Bullard Community Library for their journeys with books this summer.

In June they were encouraged to "sail away with books," and 34 made it into port.

Library Director Debbie Brown said more than 1,200 books were read by the children, with the average age being 8.

These included some who read 40 or more books for a gold medal; 30 or more books for a silver medal; 20 or more books for a bronze medal.

Pre-schoolers who listened to books read to them received certificates and ribbons.

Medals for the readers were made possible by a gift from the Bullard Area Kiwanis.

Brown said the circulation and attendance increased over the summer for both children and adults.

"Reading becomes contagious, and adults seem to read more in the summer too. It's astounding the number of books some children can cram in between swimming, scrambling, picnicking, biking, pets and puttering," Brown said.

Center right includes silver medal winners: Jarrett Whatley, Shelby Taylor, Library Director Debbie Brown, Levi Taylor, Connor Taylor. They are students who read 30 or more books on or above their reading level. Bottom are gold medal winners: Fron row, from left, are Emily Dean, Valerie Vierkant, Emma Rhyne, Meagan Williams. Second row, from left, are Rachel Emerine, Ellie Youngblood, Jacob Vierkant, Audrey Dean. Last row, from left, are Rebekah Emerine, Emmie Osborn, Philip Taylor, Andre Youngblood, Caleb Vierkant, Lauren Brashear, Michael Dailey. Brown is at the rear of award winners. These student read 40 or more books on or above their reading level.

Karen Padrucco, member of the Friends of the Bullard Community Library assisted Ms. Brown with the program.

"The program really encourages kids to read. They love to be recognized for reading, just like sports and other activities," Padrucco said.

Brown said the children compete for every one of the medals - gold, silver, and bronze.

"I want to thank all the Friends, the Kiwanis, and the parents," Brown said. "Without them, we couldn't have a program like this. We're all very proud of the kids."

At the award ceremony all children received two free books, and refreshments were provided by Friends of the Library.

Bronze medal winners are, from left, Isaac Taylor, Rachel Taylor and Caleb Youngblood. They read 20 or more books on or above their reading level. Other award winners not pictured are: Kaitlin Brashear, Abigail Buchanan, Keaton Hippler, Allen Male, Rachel Shumate, Jessica Thompson, Kristin Thompson, Margaret Bloxom, Kaycee Griffin