St. Helen Public Library kicks off 2024 Summer Library Challenge

The St. Helens Public Library invites the community to read, renew and repeat as it kicks off its 2024 Summer Library Challenge.

From June 17, to Aug. 11, children, teens and adults can pick up a book and dive into the fun with chances to win prizes all summer long.

Focused on conservation, this year’s theme of “Read, Renew, Repeat” highlights the significance of protecting endangered species, restoring natural habitats and enhancing biodiversity. According to organizers, it also encourages participants to view reading as a powerful tool for personal growth and self-preservation.

Three different programs are available for registration, with awards and requirements differing by age:

Kids (Ages 0 to 11)

Upon registration, each child will receive a colorful drawstring pack, a book, a bookmark and a reading log.

Young readers can earn fun badges by logging their reading minutes, and those with badges can spin the library’s prize wheel for rewards.

Teens (Ages 12 to 17)

Registration includes a trendy tote bag, a book, a bookmark and a reading log. Teens can log reading minutes to earn badges, which enter them into weekly drawings for $5 Dutch Bros coffee cards.

At the end of the program, four grand prizes will be awarded, including Beats earbuds and $100 gift cards to Powell’s Bookstore, Blick Art Materials and Pantheon Comics and Games.

Adults (Ages 18 and up)

By completing three tasks weekly, submitting book reviews or logging reading time, participants will be entered into weekly drawings for $20 gift cards to local restaurants. Completing a challenge also earns a stylish tote bag, and participants can choose books from the library’s prize cart.

The program culminates with two grand prizes: a “Night Out in St. Helens,” a package including a $50 restaurant gift card and tickets to the Columbia Theatre, or an “Afternoon Fun” bundle, featuring two one-hour kayak rentals from Next Adventure and a $40 gift card to a local restaurant.

All participants in the reading programs can register at https://sthelens.beanstack.com/reader365 or in person at the St. Helens Public Library.

Upcoming events

Alongside the challenges, the library will be hosting a variety of events for people to connect and learn.

Every Thursday, young ones can enjoy stories, singing and crafts during Family Storytime, while community members of all ages will have the chance to get creative during LEGO Free Play events, which take place on the third Tuesday of each month.

Adults can also tap into their artistry with events like Rock Painting and T-Shirt Tote Bags, where participants will transform withered clothing into a stylish accessory.

No library card is needed to attend these events, and preregistration for some activities is available through the library’s event calendar.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit St. Helens Public Library's website.