While SKT encourages reading for all ages, we especially enjoy supporting the summer reading programs for children at the 10 wonderful libraries in our service area. In early May, we delivered a total of 635 canvas bags, along with 706 markers, to libraries in Belle Plaine, Cedar Vale, Clearwater, Dexter, Grenola, Howard, Leon, Longton, Moline, and Viola.  

The bags are designed like a coloring sheet, so participants can color in the picture and add their names. Due to the COVID-19 situation, traditional summer reading programs may look a little different this year. SKT’s hope is that the bags will be helpful in carrying books back and forth, but also for sending packets of “Summer 2020 Reimagined” resources home with children, if desired. Belle Plaine Public Library Director, Loree Hisken, said, “Currently we don’t know if we will be open yet this summer, but I still plan to have a summer reading program. I am creating some at-home plans and activities for our patrons and have considered doing a curbside pickup time for the information. The bags will be great for sending home all of the materials that I put together!”  

We want to thank our local libraries – which are central parts of our communities – for continuing to support children and families, especially during hard times. We appreciate you!