Gilpin Library Summer reading program

By Jaclyn Schrock

Libraries support reading all summer when school is out. Gilpin Library’s summer reading program ran from June 1- August 4, called Tails and Tales. Gilpin had 140+ preschool to adult readers sign up for the reading program by age groups; babies and preschool, kindergarten-5th grade, 6th grade to high school and adults. Each age group picked up a Tails and Tales game board. Library staff have seen that all game boards are at various levels of completion, as of Wednesday, August 4, 2021.

Nine preschool children, 21 elementary aged children, and five teens completed the their game card so were eligible for the drawings.

The elementary group had the most completed game cards. One book or activity could be used for more than one space.

At 10:00 this past Wednesday, many children and adults followed the smell of popcorn to the meeting room to the right of the entrance to the Gilpin County Library.

We were all there to celebrate the completion of the summer reading program. The Ann Lincoln Magic Show was the final event for all the good reading of Tails and Tales. Bags of popcorn were eaten as we prepared for the show. We were all laughing at Ann Lincolns’ many antics.

The laugher and fun for all was clearly evident. Her silly acts kept us all chuckling, giggling, laughing out loud and cheering. The illusions she portrayed surprised us time and again. The engagement with the audience kept us all thrilled to be entertained by her funny ways.

The Ann Lincoln Show is based out of Denver. However she travels all over this time of year to appear in other libraries that offer reading programs.

When the show finished, we all had the opportunity to check out the live white dove that appeared where only a white scarf had been. And we could pet the white rabbit with red eyes that appeared in the cage where we only could see her put a white balloon that she popped.

While bowls of ice cream were being served, the final prize drawings were held. The names of the 35 Gilpin readers who completed the summer reading program with stickers on each level and week of literacy related activities to tails and tales.

A $25 Amazon gift certificate was given to the name drawn for each age group of those present.

A $100 Amazon gift certificate was awarded to a student in each of the three age groups, even if they were not present. An extra $25 Amazon gift certificate was awarded in the elementary group, as a 2nd prize winner, just because there were so many in the group.

There are more activities going on at the library besides the reading program.

Adult Book Club starts in September. Before COVID, most adults interested in the program wanted to meet the last Wednesday of the month at noon. Books to read are still to be determined. Jeffrey Eggleston is coordinating this club. Interested readers, sign up at the library.

Monday at 6 pm, started Aug. 2, is Mountain Meditation Circle. No experience is necessary. Information and questions may contact Alisa Witt, alisawitt@gmail.com text or call 847-890-5262.

Gilpin County Library also has Lego fun! These Lego programs are STEAM guided.

First Lego League Explore is for ages 6-9. Lego Explore runs on Tuesdays, starting August 24 from 4:15 – 6:00 pm, with snacks provided.

First Lego League is for ages 9-15, on Thursdays from 4:15 – 6:00 pm, beginning August 19. Transportation to the library is provided from the Rec Center and back – students can take the “after school” bus from Gilpin with permission.

Our Gilpin Library is such a happening place – see you there!