SJAFB keeps everyone reading through DOD Summer reading program

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Victoria Boyton
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Summer vacation is a time for playing out in the sun, riding bikes and swimming. Even though summer is a time for fun, it may lead to “summer slip.” Children and even adults can lose 40-50 percent of what they learn during the regular school year, said Alvina Smith, 4th Force Support Squadron library technician.

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is participating in the Department of Defense free Summer Reading Program to help counteract the effects of summer slip. The summer reading program kicks off June 21, 2017 and runs until Aug. 2, 2017.

The Summer Reading Program encompasses participants of all ages from birth through adulthood.

“Some people are concerned they do not have time to read due to work or school,” said Smith. “Reading is reading. Audio books count, reading for school counts, reading for work definitely counts.”

Service members and their families are encouraged to register for the reading program at the base library or on the library website. After registering, participants can log-on to the website and add their reading minutes to earn prizes for each milestone reached.

When an adult reads to an infant or young child, both the infant and adult earn time for the minutes spent reading, said Smith.

Many parents are excited for the program to start.

“I love that the Summer Reading Program is completely free,” said Christen Rodriguez. “My four girls are really excited to dress up for the kick-off party.”

A hero and villain themed kick-off party for the Summer Reading Program is scheduled, June 21, 2017, at 6 p.m., at the base library.

“We encourage all participants to come dressed up! There’s going to be some fun games to play, along with snacks and drinks,” Smith said.

The six-week Summer Reading Program includes weekly get-togethers for children age newborn to teens. During these gatherings, attendees will be given the opportunity to create crafts and socialize with other participants in their age group.

“Having weekly get-togethers is great for my girls and me,” said Rodriguez. “It gives them something fun to do during the summer and keeps them interested in reading by reminding them reading is fun.”

Rodriguez added the library on Seymour Johnson is a place where children can use their imagination to learn.

“We want people to read at all times and to look at the library as a community space not only for books, but for learning and other educational opportunities,” said Smith.

For more information contact the Seymour Johnson AFB base library at 919-722-5825.