Nearly 300 children and their parents and grandparents got into the spirit of summertime reading at the New Rochelle Public Library’s "Catch the Reading Bug for Summer Fun" Kick-off Party on Saturday, June 21. Musician Louie Mirtanda delighted all ages with his lively show that involved everyone in joyful singing, dancing, playing instruments, and having a great time out on Library Green. Inside the library, children had the opportunity to sign-up for the summer reading game, which encourages them to read books they want to read, bringing fun into their summer reading so that they maintain the skills they’ve gained during the school year. In keeping with the theme, participants created sweet butterflies, spider pops and reading journals to take home. The summer reading kick-off party concluded the very popular BID Family Saturdays for this school year. The bi-monthly events that are made possible by the downtown Business Improvement District, in partnership with the Library, Schools and PTA Council, and Parks & Recreation, will resume in September 2008.

A wide range of free summer programs for children are offered each day, Monday through

Friday, at both the main library and the Huguenot Children’s Library, beginning July 7.