Check it out
by CONNIE BROOKS

The awards program for Buda Library’s summer reading club, this year called “Catch the Reading Express,” was held Aug. 12 with an auditorium full of children and their families. Over 300 readers completed the program and received certificates for their participation. Children from ages 2 through 7th grade read 14,661 titles and logged in over 5,700 hours reading time. Top reader was twelve-year-old Febe Martinez, who chugged through an impressive 17,000 minutes. Additionally, 18 local teens from middle and high school enjoyed an awards ceremony on August 13, followed by an evening of games. This summer, the group read double the number of books that were tracked in 2009. From the youngest to the oldest, these youngsters will be better prepared for the upcoming school year than their non-reading peers.

Numerous local businesses furnished an array of prizes including $25 to $50 store certificates and meal coupons.  Wells Fargo Bank’s two mega-large ponies were coveted by the younger set. Two families received parties for up to 30 kids at the Capital of Texas Zoo. And in keeping with this year’s theme, the Friends of the Library provided tickets for 10 riders on a special Austin steam train, Thomas the Tank Engine, based on the popular childhood book. The library is fortunate to have so many supporters who value the continuing education of our children.

To learn more about the Buda Library call 295-5899 or check out www.buda.lib.tx.us.