"Read to the Rhythm!" Begins With Music

The Colton Public Library is kicking off its annual Summer Reading Program this weekend, and they're starting it with a petting zoo - of instruments. The annual program, Read to the Rhythm!, begins Saturday, June 13 at 1 p.m. with an instrument petting zoo provided by Councilman Luis "Dr. G" Gonzalez. Gonzalez will bring a carload of instruments for children to learn about, look at and touch. A former music teacher, Gonzalez said he has many instruments he'd like to introduce to local kids. "Kids need opportunities,” he said, “and this is a great way for them to gain first-hand experience into the world of musical instruments.” A longstanding tradition at the library, the Summer Reading Program provides kids another opportunity to expand their horizons and explore new ways to read, and it helps facilitate continuous learning, explained Christine Juedes, who coordinates the program. "Studies show that if children don't read during the summer, it can contribute to learning loss," said Juedes, "so if they read during the summer, they save that possible two months of learning loss. It's called the 'summer slide.'" Kids will read at their own pace and may check out any number of books at one time, explained Juedes. They each receive a log to mark their reading progress, too. With the musical theme, the library will also host a musical group during the reading program and host story times based around music. Children may sign up for the program, which runs through Saturday, July 25, by coming to the library on June 13. For every five books read, up to 25, children ages 12 and under will receive a prize. The Summer Reading Program will be celebrated July 25 with a root beer float party. All programs are free of charge and open to the public. For more information, please call the main library at 909-370-5083 Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; or Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m.