Shelby Optimists encourage young readers

Kim Tate of the Shelby Optimist Club hands Kay Brennan of the Hesperia Community Library a check for $1,000.

HESPERIA — The Shelby Optimist Club recently presented the Hesperia Community Library with a gift of $1,000 that the library will use a portion of to purchase materials for its “Every Hero Has a Story” 2015 Summer Reading program.

This program is open to Hesperia area children, and it includes a storytime for toddlers; family night; and teen night. Children are encouraged to practice their reading skills; participate in family night activities; and enjoy fun programs like “Acting Up Theatre.”  The program will run from June 23 through July 31, and sign-ups are during the week of June 16.

A portion of the Optimists’ gift will also be used to support the Imagination Library program. This is a national, ongoing program founded by famous country western singer Dolly Parton to support the development of reading skills in children under age 5. Parents with children under age 5 who are part of the Hesperia Library District can sign up, and they will receive a free book each month mailed directly to them. This program helps prepare kids for school.

The library is able to offer these programs for free to families in the district through the generosity of service organizations like the Shelby Optimist Club.