In describing St. Charles Parish Library’s summer reading program, Public Relations Librarian Lauren Pitz is quick to point out officials don’t tell people what to read.

“It’s not like assigned school reading,” she told L’OBSERVATEUR recently. “We’re just happy that you’re reading. Once you find something that interests you, whether it’s books about animals or princesses, we’re going to have something that you are going to want to read.”

Pitz said library officials are confident once young or experienced readers enter the library, the many events and activities for people of all ages will keep patrons coming back for more.

Margaret Carlson has been St. John the Baptist Parish Library’s childrens librarian for more than two decades. She said a lot of research shows the more children read during the summer, the less they forget from the school year.

Students, especially younger students freshly off dealing with the demands of Common Core, who maintain the skill level they achieved during the school year are in considerably better shape than their classmates, who were left idle to summer’s lazy days and the pull of constant video games.

In her column to L’OBSERVATEUR readers last month, St. John Library Director Roberta August said the system’s Summer Reading Program, which runs until July 31, has something for all ages.

“‘Every Hero Has A Story’ is the theme for participants from infants (Read 2-Me) to 12 years,” she said. “For Ages 13–18, the theme is ‘Unmask!’ We are excited to have an adult category this year. For Ages 19 and up, the theme is ‘Escape the Ordinary.’

“There are prize incentives for every category, and to entice adults to participate, a lucky participant may win an android tablet. Don’t forget that we have crafts, movies and great performers.”

With so many great and FREE entertainment options offered for youth at area libraries, there is no excuse for River Parishes students to fall behind this summer.

A world of opportunity where young people get to chart their own course is simply a book away.