Library Block Party Kicks Off Summer Reading Program

Big Bertha, the library’s resident slip and slide, is stretching out for imminent inflation as the Socorro Public Library prepares for its annual Summer Reading Program launch party June 5.

Maribel Tarango, the library’s youth services manager, has been working for months to bring literacy and adventure to local kids this summer from June 6-July 18, with activities both in and outside the library almost every weekday.

The annual program will kick off around 2p.m, with a lively block party held right outside the library, where streets will be closed to traffic for the afternoon “We’re bringing out Big Bertha, our giant inflatable slide that combines a bouncy castle with a slip-and-slide experience,” Tarango said. “It’s going to be a great way for kids to cool off and have fun!”

In addition to Big Bertha, the event will feature an assortment of tasty treats, including hot dogs, burgers, and, of course, the all-time favorite: snow cones. Youth of all ages are encouraged to participate in this free event, and will receive giveaways and door prizes from the library for participating.

“We also make sure that kiddos who are itty bitty get their own little pool time, because, you know, the slip inside can be scary for the little itty bitty. So we try to get something smaller for them,” Tarango said.

The Summer Reading Program kickoff party is a way to help youth associate summer reading with fun. During the event, families can sign up for the program and receive informative folders packed with details about the activities planned for the summer.

This summer the library will offer an acting class with Missoula Children’s Theatre on June 11, a live hawk demonstration with Hawks Aloft on June 12, as well as a tie dye event, farm day, and trip to Bosque del Apache the following week. There will also be story time, painting and arts and crafts days, and a butterfly event this month.

July will see a trip to Explora on the 3rd, Tall Paul magic on the 10th, a honey bee demo on the 15th and more.