Summer Reading kicks off at Thomas Ford Library

Registration begins at 9:30 AM on Monday, June 8 for children’s, tweens’ and teens’ Summer Reading Programs at the Thomas Ford Library. To register in person, come to 800 Chestnut St., Western Springs on June 8 and throughout the summer. To register online, click fordlibrary.org

While on the Library’s website, check out the dazzling array of programs and events that comprise the Summer Reading Programs. The offerings for young readers will fall under the themes of “Every Hero Has a Story” and “One Heroic Summer;” those for adults are themed “Groundbreaking Reads: Ideas that Shook the World.” All age groups will read, earn prizes, and have a great time. Here are some of the first events:

Monday, June 8 , 2-3 PM: Grades 6-12--Come sign up for the summer reading club, grab some great reads, then head outside (in clothes that can get stained) for hero-themed color tag!

Tuesday, June 9, 7-7:45 PM, all ages--Ropenastics at McClure Junior High Gym, 4225 Wolf Road. Families welcome; no registration. The Rock ‘n’ Rope Warrior is back by popular demand to kick off this year’s summer reading program. Ropenastics is a combination of rope jumping, rhythmic gymnastics, dance, and martial arts. The Rock ‘n’ Rope Warrior’s amazing repertoire includes such razzle-dazzle techniques as glow-in-the-dark ropes; power jumping, where the rope passes under his feet up to four times per jump; jumping rope while sitting or lying on the floor (“tush-ups”); rope-jumping versions of any dance step; and dribbling a ball with his feet while jumping rope--all to energizing music. The interactive program also covers an explanation of the benefits of aerobic activities, a look at equipment and safety, and with help from audience members, demonstrates teamwork and cooperation. Thank you to the Western Springs Library Friends for sponsoring this event.

Thursday, June 11, 6:30-7:30 PM. grades 3-5--Heroes of Science. Come learn about some superheroes whose only magic powers are their amazing curiosity, creativity, and imaginations. While none of them can leap tall buildings, see through walls, or turn invisible, they all changed the world in incredibly big ways and set the table for children around the world to build on their accomplishments. Local mathematician Jason Schwartz will teach these sessions that will feature a great scientist or inventor, include hands-on science experiments or learning activities, and point the students to books that help bring these great thinkers and their ideas to life.

June 11: Marie Curie, kitchen chemistry, and a chance to make your own fizzy lemonade
June 25: Sir Isaac Newton, the laws of motion, and a chance to race your own rocket
July 9: Cecilia Payne, the secrets of the stars, and good times with a plasma globe
July 23: Neil Degrasse Tyson, the end of Pluto, and NASA’s New Horizon’s mission
August 6: Alhazen, rainbows, and a chance to make your own pinhole camera

Watch The Patch for more great events or visit fordlibrary.org