Picture Perfect Pages: Library Reading Program Celebrates Graphic

photos courtesy Angela Palmer • by Charlotte Kovalchuk

A typical misconception about graphic novels is that they are merely comic books for kids and don’t count as “real” literature. Liberty Hill Public Library Director Angela Palmer hopes that their Every Picture Tells a Story summer reading program will help change that misconception. “I’ve seen so many kids start with graphic novels, then learn to love reading regular books. It’s a gateway book, and it’s just a really interesting way for them to learn and experience literacy in a different, fun way.”

From May 6 to July 24, readers of all ages are invited to log their reading minutes and earn prizes. They will also enjoy free performances, craft days, and other fun activities designed to help them retain what they’ve learned during the school year. “It’s not just to win little prizes. It’s to help them become lifelong learners and get better in school,” Angela says, adding that she has heard stories about patrons falling in love with reading over the summer and improving their reading skills for the next school year.

From Program to Passionate Readers

One of her favorite parts of the program is seeing the enthusiasm at the library. “The kids are so excited to bring their logs in and we always try to cheer them on.” Last year, kids ages 0-12 turned in almost 6,800 logs and read a total of 1.8 million minutes.

All are encouraged to pick up a paper reading log at the library anytime during the program dates and return completed logs at the end of the summer for a visit to the prize store. "Participants don’t have to be a patron or live in Liberty Hill. We welcome everyone to join us,” Angela says.

Summer Reading Program Schedule

• May 28: Decorate Your Own Summer Reading Tote and Make a Badge Day

• May 29: Matt Tardy, Juggle Extraordinaire

• May 30: The Magic of Oscar Munoz

• June 5: Karate Dance Party with Mr. Gene (live music)

• June 6: Daniel Benes Science Shows

• June 7: Big Rig Petting Zoo

• June 11: Flying Disc Dogs of Texas

• June 13: The Singing Zoologist, Lucas Miller

• June 19: Mr. Dave, the Spider Guy

• June 20: Professor Suds Crazy Bubble Show

• June 25: Austin Reptile Shows

• June 26: Austin Wildlife Revealed Rescued Bird Show

• July 11: Spubbles Digging with Dinos

• July 13: Fannie’s Farm Friends Petting Zoo

• July 15: Wild Things Zoofari

• July 17: Sock Monkey Circus with Honey Goodenough

• July 19: Manga Drawing with Sari

• July 22: Austin Reptile Shows

• July 23: Mr. Will’s Music Show

"The library summer reading program brings so much joy to our family. The activities are fun and exciting, and they in- spire my kids to read more,” Nicci Bontrager says. “The library isn't a stuffy place where kids are forced to whisper – it's a friendly place where they can discover the joy of good books.”

For event times and updates, visit the library’s Facebook page and lhpl.org.