NORTH WEBSTER — Games, prizes, hotdogs and fun filled the North Webster Community Center gym during the Grand Finale Picnic marking the end of the summer reading program at North Webster Community Public Library. All Summer Reading participants and their families were invited to a free hotdog picnic in celebration of a successful summer of reading.

The 369 children and teens who were registered in the Summer Reading Program read a total of 6,005 hours.  Since studies reveal that youth who read throughout the summer are better prepared to start school in the fall, these kids will have a jump start when Wawasee schools begin next week.

The top readers in the children’s division were Alaina McDonald, Jon Swain, Elise Swain and Noah Swain who logged 75 hours each and James Swain with 70 hours. In the teen division, Shayleen Crites read 360 hours followed by Charlotte Crighton with 180 hours, Lily Crighton with 130 hours and Kaya Dyer with 120 hours.

Children who read 30 or more hours were eligible to enter six different prize drawings. Winners of those drawings were Blaine Smith, McKenzie Kern, Taryn Trafan, Hailie Michel, Gideon Rensberger and Kamya Lopez. Winners of the three teen drawings were Mya Washington, Shayleen Crites and Colton McDonald.

The library staff congratulates all the youth who participated in the Summer Reading Program. “They’re all winners in our eyes,” points out Youth Services Librarian Pam Long.

With the kids starting school Thursday, Aug. 17, moms will be free to attend the Craft-A-Card Workshop at 10:30 a.m. that day and learn how to create their own greeting cards from instructor Wrenay Kann. Openings are still available, but pre-registration is required. The $10 workshop fee is due when registering and includes supplies for making three finely detailed cards. Registration and payment are currently being accepted at the Circulation Desk.

The library has added many new audio books to its collection. Audio books are a great way to pass the time while traveling, commuting, exercising, doing chores or simply relaxing. They also provide a way to enjoy books for those who have difficulty reading. The library’s large selection includes current titles by popular authors in all types of genres. Stop in and check some out.