Summer Kickoff Carnival Breaks the Tape on Summer Reading, Fun Activities
Rock Island, IL: Every reader is a winner this summer, with "On Your Mark, Get Set, READ" sports and fitness-themed summer reading and events at the Rock Island Library.
The Rock Island Library will "break the tape" on summer with a Kickoff of Summer Reading Champions on Saturday, June 4 at the Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street. The free summer carnival keeps reading muscles strong over the summer for the whole family with summer reading registration and prizes for all ages, special events, and other ways to get your reading game on from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm in the Main Library parking lot. Events move inside if weather requires.
Scheduled events include a performance by Metro Youth Drill Team at 11 am, a demo by the Quad City Motion Dance Team at 11:30 am, hands-on science-toy making with "Rocketman" Bob Windt from noon to 1:00 pm, and the chance to participate in a Zumba "dance-in" with instructor Brenee James at 1:15 pm. Other activities include an appearance from noon to 1:00 pm by Princess Beauty and visits from Rascal the River Bandit and Max Reader Mouse (the official mascot of Rock Island Public Library.)
Kickoff attendees can also try inflatable bowling at the Rock Island Parks Department table, discover how high they can jump with The Speed Attic, and visit with Rock Island Fire Department firefighters. More family fun includes a bounce house, face painting by Cari Cooney and Erica Dalburg, balloon animals by magician Rick Eugene, Olympic selfies, trading card caricatures by Bill Douglas of Draw Me Bill, and kids' games ranging from life-size blocks and pinball to a mini-golf putt. Hot dogs will be served.
The summer reading kickoff is supported by sponsorships from Modern Woodmen of America and Gas & Electric Credit Union (GECU), with additional support from the Rock Island Public Library Foundation and UAW Local 2282. All events are free and open to the public.
The library's 30/31 and Southwest Branches will be closed on Saturday June 4 so branch staff can assist with the kickoff.
###
(submitted by Lisa Lockheart)
