Mentor Public Library Takes Kids All Around the World

Kids in Mentor Public Library's reading club will go globetrotting with nothing more than a book this summer.

They can sign up for the "One World, Many Stories" program at   of the ; and, when they do, they will have the chance to read prizes, make crafts and learn about the rest of this wide world.

About 200 children have already signed up and received their passports.

For each "One World" library program in which they participate or two hours they spend reading, they will receive a stamp on their passport. And for each of the first six stamps they earn, the kids will get a prize from around the world like a boomerang, shamrock pencil or American flag bandanna.

Kids can also earn Lake County Captains tickets or raffle tickets with which they would win bigger prizes, including a telescope.

Throughout the summer, the library branches will have programs in which kids can learn about, try snacks from and make crafts inspired by all six continents. For a complete list of programs, visit the library's web site.

The summer reading kickoff party is at noon June 17 at Mentor Public Library's main branch on Mentor Avenue. Mascots from local sports teams and businesses will be there to help kids sign up for "One World, Many Stories."

Of course, parents need not wait until then to register their kid. They can do it now.

Children's librarian () Amanda Densmore said the library's goal is to sign up even more than the 900 kids who participated in the summer reading program last year.

"We are aiming for more than 1,000," she said. "The more, the better."