Huntley library offering summer programs

The Huntley Area Public Library is offering a Summer Reading Journey with adventures for adults, teens and children to last the entire summer, experiencing the culture of foreign lands without leaving home.

Last year, readers were treated to a medieval theme and the library was decked out in royal fashion, including several giant Knights of the Round Table.

For 2009, the it has once again pulled out all stops, decorating sections of the library as the seven continents. Once you enter the doors you will experience the chilling temperatures of Antarctica, the dew-covered rain forest of South America's Amazon, the diverse population of North America, the animals and jungles of Africa, historical and breathtaking Europe, the multi-cultured and most populated Asia, and the smallest but perhaps the most beautiful continent - Australia.

Staff donated their time and efforts to decorate and they had a little incentive. The children's department librarians put together a contest for a pizza party and designated teams to work on specific continents. When the word got out about the competition, family members of staff and other volunteers also donated their time to assist with the decorating.

"My kids were eager to help and they donated things right out of their bedrooms, including Beanie Babies, Webkinz, Cross Stitch pictures of animals and even bed sheets to help us create 'Africa'," said Denise Wahl, from the library's circulation department.

Other staff family members helped as well as Linda Bargiel's family. Her father painted a portrait of elephants that can be seen at the checkout desk.

The winners were announced June 5. The winning team developed the frigid, but mesmerizing "Antarctica," to be found in the public copier area.

Communications/development coordinator Leigh Ann Porsch said, "It was a fun but challenging prospect to come up with decor for Antarctica, and we're proud to have won the friendly competition among staff."

More than 3,600 district residents participated in the 2008 Summer Reading Adventure and the library is expecting more this year. Patrons can register inside the library or online at www.huntleylibrary.org/summer.

Explore the World of Reading: Through Aug. 7, adults 18 or older can read their way across the seven continents in the Adult Summer Reading Adventure, "Explore the World of Reading." Receive a free book for signing up.

The Amazing Read-Teen Summer Reading Race: Children in seventh to 12th grade can win prizes as they read throughout the summer through Aug. 7. There will be a grand prize drawing after the race ends. Review what you read and answer the weekly challenges for more chances to win.

Around the World in 60 Days - A Summer Reading Journey: For children up to sixth grade, the summer will be filled with multicultural stories, crafts, programs and prizes. Mark your calendars for the summer wrap-up open house scheduled for the evening of Aug. 7.

• The Huntley Area Public Library is at 11000 Ruth Road. For details, visit www.huntleylibrary.org or call (847) 669-5386.