One of the best parts of summer in the mountains is Grand County Library District’s Summer Reading Program. Are you thinking, “What!?” Let us convince you.

Top 10 Reasons to map your adventure this summer:

1. All five libraries are participating.
2. Sign-up starts June 1, and kids from 0-18 years will receive a free book, courtesy of the Friends of Grand County Library.
3. This year’s national summer reading program theme is “adventure begins at your library.” The summer adventure will be fun, engaging and broad enough to encompass all genres, interests and and ability levels. Come on adults, be a positive role model for the kids in our community.
4. Adventure kick off events will occur at all locations June 12-13. There will be face painting, tattoos (temporary, of course), balloon animals, music and Kona Ice. Check the library district’s calendar for dates and times at GCLD.org, under the programs tab.
5. Library programs are free. Storytellers will amaze you. Smokey Bear will be joining us in June. Pop artist, Michael Albert, will be conducting a multigenerational workshop in July. Diana Laughlin will be offering kids adventure yoga (bilingual) that month as well. Rocky Mountain Puppets will round out the summer July 31 and Aug. 1 with their show, “Expedition Underground.” Visit your local library for details.
6. The program, “map your adventure,” is for all ages, birth to 99+, and will guide you on an expedition of your own for new information and outdoor fun. Participating in and completing the program helps keep students from suffering significant summer learning loss. Parents and educators cheer when kids participate in the summer reading program.
7. Read anything you desire and find ways to create your own adventure. Enjoy a book, magazine, kit, game, launchpad or online resource.
8. Since the program’s theme is adventure — venture to the Headwaters River Journey Museum, share a day at the pool with friends and family at Fraser Valley Recreation Center, explore a new trail or outdoor activity at Snow Mountain Ranch or visit the Butterfly Pavilion or Museum of Nature and Science in Denver to explore fascinating exhibits. Admission is free to all these venues when you make an online reservation with your library card using the library district’s Access Grand Program.
9. Librarians are planning awesome activities — join us for STEAM programs, hikes, field trips, crafts, outdoor excursions, scavenger hunts and more. Make some new friends, share ideas, or challenge yourself while adventuring in our beautiful county.
10. Still on the fence? We have great prizes for children, teens and adults who complete the program by Aug. 1. Each participant from birth to age 18 who completes the program wins a day pass donated by either the YMCA of the Rockies (birth to fifth grade) or Winter Park Resort (grades 6-12). All who complete the program will have the chance to win incredible grand prizes, too.

Grand County Library District’s Summer Reading Program is the best part of summer. Try it. You have nothing to lose, lots to gain, prizes to win and an opportunity to share fantastic experiences with others.