Summer reading program best yet

This year's summer reading program went swimmingly by all counts, so the end-of-season pool party on Saturday was an appropriate finish.

Wrangell's library director, Kay Jabusch, said it was the highest number ever for the program, with 147 students participating this year.

"It went extremely well," she said. "Almost 3,500 books were read in June and July."

The program is a partnership between Wrangell's library and public school system. High schoolers were allowed to

participate for the first time this year, after several students requested their inclusion. The program was able to accommodate them with an expansion, in part, through an Institute of Museum and Library Services grant.

"These kids have grown up with the program," said Jabusch, and it was heartening to see them continue with it.

Students earned points through computerized tests, putting them in the running for one of 146 donated prizes

ranging from e-readers and camping equipment to balls, toys and even cash.

"They earned it," assistant librarian Margaret Villarma

said.

Ninety-three readers then converged on the municipal pool last weekend to celebrate with pop, treats and pizza from the Stikine Inn. All hands were on deck to supervise.

"We've had a lot of parents that are helping guard," said Jabusch, in addition to the trained lifeguards on staff.

Program participants can claim their prizes this week at the library's front desk.