Candor Free Library\u2019s summer reading program begins Monday, July 9 and continues for six weeks through Aug. 18. This year\u2019s theme is \u201cLibraries Rock\u201d, so throw on your tie-dye tees and bell-bottoms, or grab a mineral field guide and head down to the library. <\/p>\n
Readers of all ages \u2013 from \u201cjust beginning\u201d through high school \u2013 are encouraged to explore new books and relax with favorite stories. There will be weekly activities and small prizes, including geodes and crystal-growing kits. <\/p>\n
Remember to fill out a ticket for each book you read to enter the end-of-summer drawing for a gift certificate to Barnes & Noble.<\/p>\n
Preschool children can explore books through eight theme-based backpacks, including one featuring dinosaurs. Each backpack contains two picture books and activities that support math and reading skills. There\u2019s also a \u201cGuide for Parents\u201d and \u201cmake and keep\u201d activity books for the kids. <\/p>\n
Older kids can check out \u201cExplore\u201d bags. Each canvas tote bag contains a nonfiction book and supplies to keep a kid engaged for a couple of hours or more. <\/p>\n
Also, the library is hosting a series of free family-friendly events over the summer. The season kicks off with Bones and Stones on Saturday, July 14 at 1 p.m. Rock-ologists of all ages can make a fossil and explore geology through hands-on activities and art. <\/p>\n
Captain Jack Sparrow will visit the library on Thursday, July 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. He\u2019ll present a pirate show filled with action and fun. The program is rated \u201cArrr\u201d and is suitable for kids and adults of all ages. <\/p>\n
Make sure to catch the performance by Didgeridoo Down Under (DDU) the following Tuesday, July 24. The high-energy, Australia-themed show combines music, culture, science, comedy, character building and audience participation. Raihan Alam, one of the DDU crew, will take you on a musical journey to Australia and beyond, as he plays an assortment of didgeridoos and percussion instruments. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. <\/p>\n
On Wednesday, Aug. 8, Dan the Snake Man will drop by. His show features exotic reptiles and provides an opportunity for people to interact with the animals on an up-close and personal level. Dan encourages people to look, touch, and ask lots of questions. The show starts at 6:30 p.m.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s an ArtSplash workshop on Sunday, July 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. The workshop is open to all ages from eight to 108, though children under 12 will need to be accompanied by an adult. A cost of $5 will cover materials. This month\u2019s workshop will explore lettering. RSVP by calling the library.<\/p>\n
For the summer, Lego club has moved to Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon. The Maker Space is well-stocked for creating and experimenting, and there are a couple of circuit kits for emerging engineers to explore. Wireless is always on, so bring your laptop, and there\u2019s a stack of board games on the shelf.<\/p>\n
And for those who want to go off on an adventure, be sure to check out the Empire Pass. The pass allows free New York State park entry to one carload of friends and family. Patrons may check out the pass for one week.<\/p>\n
Candor Free Library is located at 2 Bank St., just behind the Village Hall. Library hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon, 2 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. <\/p>\n