Summer Reading challenge rewards curiosity with prizes 

This summer,  Henrico County Public Library is challenging readers of all ages to explore the farthest reaches of the imagination.  A Universe of Stories, the Library’s 2019 Summer Reading challenge,  will begin  June 3 and will run through Aug. 31.   All that is needed  to participate  is a library card  and a curious mind.

This year’s challenge, which will be accessible online, via  smartphone, or by paper log, takes the form of a game that rewards participants with badges as they log activities such as reading, submitting book reviews, attending library programs, and visiting parks or museums.

“Books and reading are at the core of what we do, but it’s also part of our mission to promote life-long learning,  and learning can happen in many forms,” said Rick Samuelson, Youth Services Coordinator for HCPL.

Beginning June 3, readers can visit  henricolibrary.org/summerreading  to create an account, or stop by the library to pick up a paper log, pencil, bookmark, and a choice of an enamel pin or balsa glider upon signing up. Once readers are signed up online, they  will be entered into weekly  drawings for $25 gift cards to major retailers like Barnes & Noble, Target, Regal Cinemas and more.

Upon reaching their goals, participants will win a free book and earn a  virtual  ticket to use to enter their grand  prize drawing of choice: for  an  Oculus Go Standalone Virtual Reality Headset, a Kano Computer Kit Touch  & Harry Potter Coding Kit,  a Nintendo Switch,  or  an  Orion  Star Blast  4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope.

Pre-readers  will be automatically entered to win a Duplo Creative Box. Prizes and grand prizes are provided thanks to the generosity of the Friends of Henrico County Public Library.

For those who have difficulty visiting the library in person or online, the Mobile Library Service will make visits to day care centers and senior communities across the county.  HCPL tables will also be available at such events as the Henrico Police Community Fairs  at  Williamsburg Park June 6,  the  Fox Rest Apartments  June 14,  the World Refugee Resource Fair June 22,  Red  White & Lights July 4, and the Dorey Park Farmer’s Market on the first Saturday of each month all summer long.  In addition, HCPL will visit several communities alongside Henrico County Public Schools Family  &  Community Engagement.

For details about how to explore a Universe of Stories at the library this summer, ask a librarian or visit henricolibrary.org/summerreading starting June 3.