Summer reading program in full swing at NFM Library
When John Storms presented his “World of Reptiles” to a sold-out children’s crowd in North Fort Myers, the youngsters paid rapt attention seeing a real crocodile, a 100-plus pound snake, a real-life dragon and more.
Children needed to get tickets for the free reptile presentation held at the North Fort Myers Library as part of the “Make A Splash and Read” summer reading program, and the event was full.
Storms’ show is one of the most popular summer library attractions at all Lee County libraries, but library officials said those who missed out still have more great children’s programs to come.
At the North Fort Myers Branch, there will be “Something’s Fishy” Story and Crafts for all ages at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 8; Geddy The Gecko, Wednesday, July 14, at 11 a.m.; the Under The Sea Magic Show, Wednesday, July 21, at 11 a.m., and the popular Coastie the Safety Boat, Wednesday, July 28, at 11 a.m.
Voncile Williams, program coordinator for Lee County Library System, said this year children are more than interested in the library programs.
“Our numbers and registration are higher this year than last year,” she said. “We’re very busy at all of the libraries.”
It is her fifth year of working with the summer reading program. “We try to find presenters that emphasize reading, and we have worked with most of the presenters over different summers. They always give us a good show.”
Storms has consistently been one of her top presenters. He brings reptiles, including a 120-pound albino Burmese python named Jesse, a gopher tortoise, a crocodile and a bearded dragon.
“I’ve been doing programs for about 28 years,” said Storms. He’s popular at local school assemblies as well, and enjoys his library shows.
He not only brings his reptiles to visit young children at schools and pre-schools, but to retirement communities as well.
“I enjoy the library summer reading program,” he said. “I always emphasize how tremendously important reading is to kids over the summer. If you can read, you can do anything. If you can’t, everything is a challenge. It’s a vital part of education, and if you can keep kids reading in the summer, they are not starting behind in the fall.”
During his program, he many times talks about reading.
“I emphasize that books can take you anywhere in the universe – and in your imagination,” he said.
He also encourages children to consult with a librarian if they have any questions.
Another favorite program of organizers is Coastie The Safety Boat, presented by the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
“They have been working with us several years, they have great volunteers in the area,” Williams said. “We live in an area with a lot of water, beaches and swimming pools. Kids need to learn about boating safety. We felt that was very important to our program. With our theme, we think this was a perfect program, a miniature talking tug boat.”
North Fort Myers was particularly busy in the last few weeks, according to Denise Hancock, Children’s and Teen Librarian.
“The summer programs are going very well,” she said. “We have about 340 children registered. We have a lot of children that visit the library while school is out, for programs, activities and games. Our purpose is to keep reading while school is out.”
The staff at the North Fort Myers branch puts together its own “Something’s Fishy” Story and Crafts for All Ages program to be held on July 8.
“Join us for a lively story and fun crafts about creatures from the deep blue sea. All ages welcome,” officials said. Registration is requested.
The following are more detailed descriptions of upcoming programs:
GEDDY THE GECKO
Presented by John Mallory
Make a Splash with Geddy the Gecko, the lizard that learned how to believe in himself and come out on top, on top of the water that is! He s the water-walking lizard! Come hear his story, dance, and laugh with us.
UNDER THE SEA MAGIC SHOW
Presented by Robbie the Ringmaster
This interactive children’s show features classic magic tricks, large colorful fish puppets and a scuba diving puppy dog. Just wait for the grand finale – producing live goldfish with the help of audience members!
COASTIE THE SAFETY BOAT
Join the Coast Guard Auxiliary and Coastie the Safety Boat to learn about boating and water safety.
Other activities include Kids Read Down Fines, from 2 to 3 p.m., Saturday, July 17. Children and teens can earn a $2 coupon for every 15 minutes of reading during the allotted time in the designated area of the library. For ages 18 and younger. Coupons may be applied to cards issued to patrons age 18 and under only.
The North Fort Myers Public Library is located at 2001 North Tamiami Trail, N.E. For more information about a program or to register, call the library at 533-4320. A sign language interpreter is available with five business days notice to library staff. Assistive listening system available; request at desk.