REDVERS — The Redvers Library is offering its Around the World and Library Club programming again this year for area children.
As Katy Soroka of the Redvers Library explained, the Â鶹ÊÓƵeast Regional Library works with the TD Summer Reading Club (SRC).
“It is the TD SRC that sets the theme every year and provides some materials for branches to use,” said Soroka.
The summer reading club offers something unique to those who participate.
“Kids and parents are always looking for some variety in their summer fun. Our Summer Reading Club is a great way to mix up the routine and provide some fun and learning with their peers,” said Soroka.
Although this is Soroka’s second summer, she confirmed Redvers Library has always participated in summer reading programs and decided to continue the tradition.
This year the TD Summer Reading Club's theme is "Around the World".
“(This) is a fantastic theme,” said Soroka. “What I enjoy about it is that you can take it in so many directions,” said Soroka. “You likely won't find any libraries running it in exactly the same way.”
In Redvers, they will be exploring Scotland, India, the Philippines and Canada this year.
“When making plans for the programs, I considered the demographic and personalities of the children in our community that love participating in our programming,” said Soroka.
“They are full of energy, enthusiasm as well as a mix of athletic and artistic abilities,” continued Soroka. “I have planned two outdoor events to keep them moving as we learn, as well as two events that include arts and crafts. Authentic snacks from each country will also be provided free of charge for the kids to experience.”
When deciding which countries to pick this year, it was important to Soroka that the programming represent the community.
“As a multicultural community, our friends, neighbours, co-workers and peers originate from all over the world. I'm excited to have residents participate in our programming to teach all of us about their experiences and cultures. The countries that I chose were based on our local demographics,” said Soroka.
Soroka is particularly excited about the Scotland unit.
“As a Scottish immigrant myself, I'm excited to facilitate the program on Scotland and share the excitement of the Highland Games,” said Soroka.
Soroka has also ensured that there are presentations from locals Jay Tyagi and Chona Lang.
“Redvers is also fortunate to have many immigrants from India and the Philippines who are willing to share their experiences with us. Jay Tyagi will be teaching us how to play cricket. Chona Lang will be teaching us about the Philippines and helping us craft our very own Jeepneys to take home.
Canada will be the children’s last stop on their trip around the world.
“It was particularly important to me to be able to highlight the original inhabitants of our land. We are excited to have Heather Sparrow join us again. She recently facilitated the 'Metawetan: Let's Play' program, which was a huge success,” said Soroka. “This time she will be working with our slightly older kids. She is providing a special treat of bannock and Saskatoon berry soup as well as leading a watercolor art project.”
Soroka has high hopes for how their stops around the world will go.
“I hope that the kids are interested in learning about other countries and how they differ from their own experiences, but also what they have in common. I'm excited to hear all of the questions that I know they will have as well as seeing their excitement to try and learn new things,” said Soroka.
Registration is now open for the four dates with limited spots remaining, although they can add to a wait list.
People can register by sending a message on Facebook, emailing [email protected], or by calling Soroka at 306-452-3255.
For those interested, Soroka is also offering a summer reading program.
“This is my second summer as the librarian and my second Summer Reading Club. Redvers Library has been offering it for as long as I can remember. Every summer looks different with a new theme every year,” said Soroka.
The Summer Reading Club is an annual effort that encourages kids to keep reading and learning over the summer months.
This program will be offered to children aged six to 12 and runs from June 12-Sept. 1.
Those children participating will get a treat for signing up for a library card, and every time they check out a material.
Soroka will be offering a kids’ “recommendation shelf" this year as part of the summer reading club. All the kids have to do is tell Soroka what books they enjoyed reading for them to be put on the shelf.
“I am fortunate to have an amazing library board,” said Soroka. “They are very engaged and supportive as well as great at brainstorming new ideas to implement. The idea of the kids’ recommendation shelf came straight from a board member.”
