The Coaldale Public Library is promoting literacy with summer programs available for youth in southern Alberta. (Photo: Emily Camac, Coaldale Public Library)

By Justin Goulet

Coaldale Library touting importance of literacy through summer programs

Jun 22, 2023 | 2:04 PM

COALDALE, AB – The Coaldale Public Library is promoting literacy this summer.

Emily Camac is the Summer Reading Coordinator with the library.

She said the library has a couple of programs available for younger readers. The first, Book Buddies, will operate every Tuesday and Thursday starting July 4, and ending August 24, 2023.

“This program is a paired reading program for kids in kindergarten, all the way up to grade three,” she explained, adding volunteers in grades four and up are invited to help.

Camac added that the library will also run the TD Summer Reading Club, a Canada-wide initiative.

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She explained, “It basically just focuses on improving literacy for elementary school ages, while also giving those older kids a chance to volunteer and really get into a leadership position before they enter the workforce.”

Camac said the TD Summer Reading Program takes place on Wednesdays from July 5 to August 23, 2023.

The Coaldale Public Library is offering summer reading prpgrams for youth. (Photo: Emily Camac, Coaldale Public Library)

She added that these programs have been happening at the Coaldale Public Library for many years. Camac touched on the importance of reading, noting that avoiding reading, particularly during the summer, can hinder a child’s educational development.

She said, “We’re just focused on improving literacy for them during the summer.”

“It’s [reading] a good alternative to watching movies and TV and stuff. I think it requires a lot more brainpower, a lot more imagination on our part.”

Those looking to volunteer or learn more about the programs available this summer can visit the Coaldale Public Library website or email coalsrp@coaldalelibrary.ca.

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