Libraries challenge everyone to spend time reading, learning, exploring, and energizing during summertime. Many libraries across the world get much busier in the hazy, crazy, hot months of summer. A big part of the reason are children. Naturally, most of the visitors come at the library for books and access to computer and the internet, but children also come for the many cultural programs, author lectures, art exhibits, game hours, the summer reading program and other special programs.

While libraries understand the importance of offering more varied learning opportunities that are fun and impactful, they also know it is equally important that these offerings do not look, feel or sound like school. Games and entertainment offer children the chance to develop skills in strategic thinking and problem solving in a fun way, and encourage them to experiment, use their imagination and take on new roles and challenges.

This year, Novateca public libraries are offering a full programme of free activities and encouraging kids to have fun, stay active, and keep learning all summer long. Children have a chance to play games, explore library services, and attend one of the many events held at libraries in their town or village.

English classes are a big hit this summer and the new library service “We learn English during summertime” developed by the Public Library from Marcauti, Dubasari district is a great example. The classes focus on conversation, grammar, and reading. Children learn the alphabet and correct pronunciation of words. To make the classes more interesting and fun, teachers often incorporate an interactive element, such as games and singing.

This summer, the Public Library from Rezina offers various opportunities for children, including fun group activities, watching movies and even painting tattoos. The 56 children enrolled during the first six days of the summer camp engaged in dance and painting activities that help them explore, play and socialize with peers.

The Public Library from Nihoreni has conceived its summer camp activities with a focus on IT services. Children join the summer camp to learn how to use Microsoft Word, search for cartoons and watch them together with their peers. The library also invites children interested in playing chess to visit the library and master their skills or learn new strategies and techniques.

Reading Clubs are another point of interest for many library users. They offer a variety of fun reading-related activities for children of all ages and keep them reading throughout the season. The Public Library from Anenii Noi together with Peace Corps Volunteer Cecilia Diaz are continuing their Harry Potter Club, where children could read Harry Potter Books in Romanian and do creative art projects to close every chapter.

Libraries offer a safe and warm space for children to learn outside of school and add hands-on, integrated learning activities to their summer programs. Therefore, we invite you to leave boredom at home this summer and check in to your libraries for fun activities!