STE. GENEVIEVE — As summer kicks off, so does the Ste. Genevieve County Library’s vibrant lineup of programs. The Library is thrilled to announce its 2025 Summer Reading Theme: “Color Our World.” This year’s theme centers around art, design, and a wide array of creative programs designed to spark imagination in readers of all ages.
The summer festivities begin with a kickoff event on Saturday, June 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring special guests Bluey and Bingo from the beloved animated series Bluey.
“We usually invite book characters to our events, but Bluey is loved by both kids and adults, so we took the opportunity to bring them to our library,” said Library Director Shawn Long.
In addition to meeting Bluey and Bingo, attendees can enjoy themed crafts and activities, pick up their summer reading bags, choose a new book, and learn more about the library’s resources and offerings.
This year’s Summer Reading Program is made possible by generous donations from Literacy Without Limits and the Friends of Ste. Genevieve County Library.
“We had to significantly reduce our budget this year, and with the failure of Prop L, we couldn’t offer our usual programming,” Long explained. “Thankfully, these two organizations stepped up to make it happen. We’re incredibly fortunate to have their support.”
Thanks to these partners, the library will host programs throughout the summer such as Squeegee Art, Bad Art Night, Balloon Lanterns, Alcohol Ink Coasters, and more. Participants can also earn Book Bucks through reading, which can be redeemed for exciting prizes at the end of summer.
New this year is the “Read Up” Program for students in grades K–6, modeled after the iconic Pizza Hut Book It! program. Participants can earn free pizza from Sirro’s by logging their reading progress. “We are extremely grateful to be partnering with Sirro’s for this program, and appreciate their support” Long stated.
“All kids need to do is stop by the library to pick up a paper reading log, track the number of minutes or books they read, and turn it in for a Personal Pan Pizza certificate courtesy of Sirro’s,” said Long. “Even better, if they complete all three months, the reward in the final month will be upgraded to a 9-inch pizza!”
The library is also proud to be a recipient of a Dollar General Literacy Foundation Grant, which is funding a full year of Novel Effects for all SGCLIB cardholders. The grant also enabled the library to purchase 80 additional picture books compatible with Novel Effects and to bring back the popular Teen Book Box program for teens ages 12–18 in June, July, and August.
No matter your age or how you prefer to read, the Ste. Genevieve County Library is offering something for everyone this summer.
“We put a strong focus on keeping kids reading, but reading is just as important for adults,” Long added. “We hope these programs inspire everyone in our community to pick up a book—or even listen to an audiobook.”
To learn more about Summer Reading or any of the programs mentioned, visit the Ste. Genevieve County Library Facebook page or stop by the library and speak with a member of the staff.