Get ready for some wild times and some wild reads as the Berryville Public Library kicks off the 2021 Tails and Tales Summer Reading Program.  Not only will there be tales to read, but there will also be reading challenges for all ages. The reading program utilizes an online app called Beanstack, where you can get registered.  Those who do not have access to the internet can sign up and participate on paper at the library located at 104 Spring Street.

Last year’s summer reading program was the most successful one yet with over 15,300 hours read.  Through the generosity of the Western Family, who pledged to donate $1 for every hour read, last year’s summer program raised $15,343 for the Berryville Library Building Fund, exceeding the goal by over 5,000 hours.

This year, the Squires Family is challenging our community to match our record read and has pledged to donate $1 for each hour read up to $15,000.  Children, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or just avid readers who want to participate are encouraged to do so!   You don’t have to live in Berryville to participate since hours can be logged in through the Beanstack app.

According to Julie Hall, Library Director, "Since the library has begun a library building project to raise the needed $2.5 million in funds to build a new and expanded library by 2025 or before, this generous challenge by the Squires Family will push us as a community to meet the 15,000 hours of reading challenge.  By signing up for Summer Reading and logging hours, you will be part of turning reading hours into dollars toward a new and improved library that will serve this community for the future. We need everyone's help this summer to reach this goal."  

This year's theme is Tails and Tales and will sure offer a ton of wild fun!   Separate challenges are available for readers and listeners ages 0 to 105.  All reading completed in June and July counts.  All types of reading count, including reading to others or listening to audiobooks.

Area businesses have donated prizes to those reaching their individual reading goals, and the Beanstack app will have features that allow participants to keep track of their hours, post reviews of the books they are reading, and monitor our progress towards the 15,000-hour goal.

Registration begins June 1, 2021. The reading challenge will end on July 31, 2021.  For more information or to get signed up, visit this page or call your friends at the Berryville Public Library 104 Spring Street.  (870) 423-2323

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