Kirsten Jackson transformed Ardmore Public Library into “The Castle of Stories” Thursday morning, much to the delight of a roomful of youngsters, their parents and caretakers.
Jackson, who bills herself as the “Queen of Theater,” used her flair for the dramatic along with a program that emphasized interactive storytelling to bring tales like “Three Billy Goats Gruff” and “Old Cricket” to life.
She was featured for two sessions Thursday as the wrap-up to the library’s summer reading program.
Shauna Smith said her 4-year-old daughter Hannah thoroughly enjoyed the five-week program.
“This is the first year we’ve come, and we’ve come every time,” Smith said. “It’s been a lot of fun.”
Rhonda Johnson, who attended Thursday’s morning session with her son, Landon, 9, said the program plays an important educational role.
“It encourages reading during the summer,” she said. “We don’t want to lose that.” Youth Services Librarian Angela Armstrong and Children’s Library Assistant Toni Mann coordinated the program this summer. The theme this year was “Be Creative At Your Library,” and activities ranged from arts and crafts to a puppet show. The sessions were organized by age groups, so young children as well as sixth-graders could participate. Children in day care and day camps also attended.
The library also featured a “Summer Cinema” on Tuesday afternoons with free popcorn and drinks. The movies averaged about 150 viewers per show. Armstrong said she was surprised by the large turnout this summer.
“We actually had to turn people away because of our space limitations,” she said.
Last year, the summer reading program averaged 300 participants a week. This summer, it averaged 375. Last year’s Summer Cinema averaged about 70 viewers in comparison with the 150 this year. Armstrong has a possible explanation for the increased demand.
“I’m assuming it has a lot to do with the economy,” she said. “I think people are looking for free or inexpensive things for their children to do.”
Armstrong said next year the library will try to accommodate more youngsters so no one will be turned away.
A summer reading program for teenagers is scheduled from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on July 7, 14, 21 and 28. For information about that program or other library services call 223-8290 or visit the library’s Web site at www.ardmorepublic.lib.ok.us/.
Steve Biehn, 221-6546
