Public library offers summer activities, reading programs

  • Published
  • By Kendahl Johnson
  • 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Although the base library remains closed, the Albuquerque Public Library is there to fill the void, offering a wide range of free summer programs for kids, teens and adults.

"We would like to extend a warm invitation to all military members and their families to join us for the fun as we 'dig into reading' this summer," said Laura Metzler, a children's librarian at the Tony Hillerman Branch. "We have incredible programs that everyone can enjoy."

All 16 public library locations are participating in the "Dig Into Reading" summer program, which starts June 1. Those interested in joining can sign up any branch library to get a reading log. Participants track their progress throughout the summer and can win prizes, like backpacks, books, gift cards or movie tickets.

In addition to the reading program, libraries will be having free shows for kids throughout the summer.

"Storytellers, magicians, puppets, musicians - we have something for everyone," Metzler said. "Check with your nearest branch for show times."

The three libraries closest to the base are the Tony Hillerman Library, near the corner of Wyoming and Menaul, the Lomas Tramway Library, at the corner of Lomas and Tramway, and the San Pedro Library, which is on San Pedro between Gibson and Central.

All three branches will have special activity programs for teenagers ages 12-18 this summer. The programs offer activities such as creating comics, origami, miniature painting, duct tape art, zombie make up, and book art workshops.

All of these programs are free, but some of the activity programs have limited space and require advance registration. For more information about what programs are being offered, and for branch hours and locations, visit www.abclibrary.org.

"We appreciate the difficulties military families face and we hope the library can be a valuable resource for all the families at Kirtland," Metzler said.