PRESS RELEASES
BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY KICKS OFF SUMMER READING PROGRAM WITH SPECIAL EVENTS
~ 2004 Statewide Theme, New York is Read, White and Blue, Created by B&ECPL Librarian ~
May 17, 2004 - Buffalo, NY - The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library is sponsoring the 2004 summer reading program, New York is Read, White and Blue , for toddlers through young adults, announced B&ECPL Director Michael C. Mahaney . All 52 B&ECPL locations will be hosting a wide variety of summer activities for different age groups. Visit your local library to register and learn more about suggested books as well as recognition and prize incentives. Check out the B&ECPL's website, www.buffalolib.org, for all event details.
“It is important for children and families to make reading a priority, especially throughout the busy summer months,” said Mahaney. “Studies have shown that children who actively read during this time increase their retention of knowledge, expand their vocabulary and enhance their comprehensive and analytical skills. New York is Read, White and Blue encourages children to select books that they find interesting and entertaining in order to make reading a fun activity.”
To celebrate the kick-off of the summer reading program, several libraries are holding special family events. The City of Tonawanda Public Library , 333 Main Street , will be featuring magic and music on Wednesday, May 26 th . Singer Glenn Colton will perform at 10 a.m. followed by Magician Chuck Wonch at 12 p.m. Registration is required and space is limited. Call 693-5043.
On Saturday, June 12 th , the Central Library, 1 Lafayette Square , is presenting a “Read Across America” children's concert by Jim McCarthy at 11 a.m. followed by Magician Chuck Wonch's performance.
The Lancaster Public Library, 5466 Broadway, is featuring music by singer/songwriter Jim McCarthy on Friday, July 2 nd at 1:30 p.m. At the same time, Magician Chuck Wonch will be entertaining participants with magic tricks and balloon animals at the Depew Public Library, 321 Columbia Avenue .
Planning for the 2004 New York State summer reading program was made possible with Federal Library Services and Technology Act funds, awarded to the New York State Library by the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services. Each year, a library system in New York State develops a theme and manual filled with information, ideas and activities for librarians across the state who are planning summer reading programs. The 2004 program, New York is Read, White and Blue , was developed and coordinated by a staff member from the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library. Children, teachers and parents can visit www.summerreadingnys.org for games, programs, booklists and more.
The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System, comprised of the Central Library, 15 city branches, 36 contract library facilities and mobile and outreach services, is dedicated to enriching the lives of Erie County's diverse community members by providing open and equal access to information and technology. For further information, contact the Office of Community Relations at 858-7182 or visit the Library's website at www.buffalolib.org.