Cape Girardeau Public Library receives $11K grant for summer reading program
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – The Cape Girardeau Public Library was awarded an $11,033 grant to support its annual summer reading program.
The grant is provided by the Missouri State Library. It will enhance the library’s ability to engage the community, foster a love of reading, and promote literacy among all age groups.
The grant funds will be used to conduct a nine-week program for children, teens, and adults.
The focus of the summer reading program is age-specific
- to help young children build reading skills
- to prepare older children for success by developing early language skills
- to motivate teens to read and discuss literature
- to encourage adults to experience the joy of reading
“The library’s summer reading program has been a cornerstone of our community engagement initiatives, encouraging individuals of all ages to explore the joy of reading during the summer months. This grant will enable us to expand and enrich the program, providing even more resources and activities to inspire a lifelong love of reading,” said library director Katie Earnhart.
A portion of the grant will be used to hire additional part-time staff and bring in paid performers and teachers for special events.
Some funds will also be directed toward necessary program supplies and items to be added to the collection for checkout, such as hiking kits, board games, and additional downloadable ebooks and audiobooks.
These investments are intended to make this year’s summer reading program educational and a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Youth Services coordinator Alli Boyer says the library exceeded their reading program sign up expectations and hope to to day again this year.
This project is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the Missouri State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
