Dive into 'Oceans of Possibilities'

SANDPOINT — Locals of all ages are invited to explore the depths of the oceans through the East Bonner County Library District’s summer reading program.

Now that school is out and summer has officially begun the library is ready to not only get everyone reading, but dive off the deep end with the theme for summer, “Oceans of Possiblities”. The theme will feature activities centered around ocean exploration and conservation.

As always the summer reading program will give kids and teens the opportunity to earn an Idaho state park pass. To earn points, participants will complete specific “missions” such as a “captain’s log,” which requires readers to complete five tasks from a list of ten. Another way to earn points is to attend library events and programs, such as the first event of the summer “Camp Ocean.”

An interactive camp, “Camp Ocean,” held at City Beach, brought the theater troupe Traveling Lantern, from Spokane, to do a play dressed as starfish and other deep sea critters and get the youngsters involved with games and activities.

Adults also have the opportunity to participate by playing “Book Bingo.” Those who would like to participate need only download and print a bingo card then get started. Getting a bingo requires the reader to complete specific tasks such as borrowing an e-magazine or reading a book with ocean sounds in the background. After scoring a bingo the card can be turned in to the library and will equal on entry into a drawing for books, magazines, and other prizes. The deadline to submit bingo cards is Aug. 27.

While one event has wrapped up, the library district has much more planned over the course of the summer.

Coming in July, again from Spokane, is the Mobius Discovery Center, which will visit the Sandpoint Library twice this summer. The center is bringing two separate interactive events. The Mobius Discovery Center is a non-profit that offers children and families hands-on learning in science, technology, culture and arts. On July 18, Mobius will bring an interactive biology event to the Sandpoint Library, centered on learning about fisheries, river health and the ocean. Then in August Mobius will return with a walk through the ocean with the Mobius planetarium event. Tonnemacher said she will use this event to gauge interest and possibly add another planetarium visit if needed.

Although the reading program has already gotten underway, anyone wishing to participate can still register or download a bingo card online and start earning points immediately.

Before the end of June,there will be one more summer reading event — today, June 25 from 12-2 p.m. at the Sandpoint Library.. Kids, and teens with their families will be playing ocean-themed trivia with snacks and prizes.

To keep up with summer reading events, register a reader kindergarten through 12th grade, or download a bingo card visit the district library website for more information.