HAMPDEN – Hampden Free Public Library is hosting its annual summer reading program for children, teens, and adults, with the kick-off at the end of June.  The program pulls around 250 readers each year, with this year’s theme being “Build a Better World.”

Throughout the summer, the library hosts a series of events for all ages. On the kickoff for kids, Youth Services Librarian, Kate’Rumplik said, “We're going to do a ‘Big Truck Night.’  I'm inviting some of the local contractors, our DPW [Department of Public Works] and our fire station to bring over some of their big trucks so kids can climb up and check those things out and then they can sign up for the summer reading program.”

Other activities that the youth age group will have access to include a play called Upcycled Cinderella; Mad Science sponsored by Monson Savings Bank; a Lego build; Bubbleology; and Home Depot’s Build Day.

Library Director, Ellen Moriarty has events planned for the adults, too.  “We’re kicking off our adult summer reading with an author talk from a local author Hanna Perlstein Marcus, she has a nice history with us so she's coming back and everyones excited to have her.”

For every book an adult reads throughout the summer they receive a raffle ticket which they can choose to put toward a one of a series of prize baskets; some worth up to $200.  “I try to have different themes for the baskets.  I get totally carried away.  We’re going to have a book lovers basket, a Hamilton themed basket, a Food Lovers basket, a Henry David Thoreau basket; I try to kick it up a notch each year so it’s not the same old same old,” Moriarty said.

Tying into the “Build a Better World” theme, the library is hosting two projects for the kids, teens, and adults to take part in as they pass through the library.  Each age group will have the opportunity to write a letter or draw a picture to be sent to soldiers overseas at the end of the summer.  There will also be a donation box created for Thomas J O'Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center where people can drop off blankets, food, or any other items to help the animals.

In August, the kids, teens, and adults will all have celebrations during which they can win prizes and discuss their summer reading.  “Usually we give the kids a little backpack and put all their prizes in there and the backpacks will have gift certificates to places like Mt. View, Fenway [Golf], Texas Roadhouse, and then the library gives them a few prizes and we let them pick a book.  All the kids, as long as they signed up and participated, they'll get a little something,” Rumplik said.

The Hampden Free Public Library is in need of donations, whether it be an event sponsorship, monetary, gift certificates, or prizes to give away.  “We have so much going on and it’s all from the generosity of our local businesses and people contributing to the library, it’s been awesome,” Moriarty said, “I feel incredibly supported by this community.”

When donating to the Hampden Free Public Library, donors are encouraged to write a check to the library or give gift certificates to local restaurants or attractions that can be put into prize baskets.  For any questions or for additional information call the library at 413-566-3047 or email emoriarty@cwmars.org.