His clever hands mystified watchers as he made items disappear and appear again, performed card tricks, joined lengths of rope and separated them again, and seemed to read minds.  After the program he stayed to answer questions from several children and recommended several magic books from our collection. 

This was the kick-off program for the library’s summer reading activities, Libraries: Deep in the Heart of Texas.  Parents who were unable to attend can pick up registration materials and reading logs at the library, with a calendar of events.  Two reading programs will run simultaneously.  The Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus reading program began June 11 and ends July 2.  Children who read five books and turn in a reading log will receive a Circus Reading Award Card to exchange for a free circus ticket.  The Ringling Bros. clown will perform at the library Friday June 26 at 11:00 a.m.

The second reading program began on June 11 and runs through Saturday July 18.  This is the Texas Summer Reading Club sponsored by the Texas State Library.  Everyone who participates will receive a reading certificate at the end of the program and other cool prizes for turning in their reading logs.  Children who read 25 or more books will be entered in a drawing for a free MP3 player. 

Bethany Lewis invites children in grades 3-5 to join her for a Blue bonnet Book Discussion Club on Tuesdays at 10:15.  Books to be discussed are The Lightening Theif by Rick Riordan and The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall. 

Blanca Scroggins provides a bilingual story time on Tuesdays at 11:15.  Children learn some Spanish as they enjoy stories and activities.  Last week, children learned about Flag Day and made flag pennants.  On Tuesday June 16, they listened to a Father’s Day story and made Father’s Day cards. 

On Wednesdays, preschool story time meets at 10:15 and 11:15.  Participation is limited to no more than 45 children and parents per session, so register early to have your choice of time.  The story time begins with a Circus puppet show on June 17.  Merrill Hazelton will tell “How Pa Shot the Tractor” on Wednesday June 24.

Thursday afternoon at 2:00, Jerry Hamon from the Texas parks and Wildlife Department will teach children, fathers, and grandparents to fish.  He will bring equipment to teach everyone how to cast.  Don’t miss this chance to share some fun with Dad’s and Granddad’s, and learn about fishing just in time for Father’s Day. 

If you haven’t bought a ticket for “Night at the Library” hosted by the Teen Council and co-sponsored by Friends of the Library, time is running out!  Friday evening, June 19, is the date to enjoy an Italian dinner and entertainment and also benefit juvenile diabetes research.  Costumed waiters will serve you and tell you about the library and what you will find in it.  During intermission, there will be comedic entertainment and music.  Two serving times are available, 5:00 pm and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the library and are tax deductible.