Super Reader program kicks off in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE -- Dozens of children transformed into super heroes Monday morning, May 14th as they gained the power of knowledge. It was all a part of the kick off of the "Super Reader Program" at the Washington Park Library.

It wasn't a spider bite, the sun or any cool gadgets that made the kids super heroes, but rather, the power that comes from reading a book! "I like reading because you learn about a lot of stuff," first-grader Isabella Prichard said.

The Milwaukee Public Library kicked off its "Super Reader Summer Reading Program" Monday. Library officials encourage children to read while they're on break from school to retain and further develop reading skills. "Kids who don't read over the summer can actually lose two to three months of skills and over the course of years, kids just get further and further behind," Milwaukee Public Library Director Paula Kiely said.

Each child that signs up for the program receives a folder to keep track of their reading minutes. There are incentives involved to encourage the kids to keep reading and plenty of fun programs throughout the summer to maintain their interest.

"We have magicians, we have animals, we have science, we have just funny things all building background knowledge and getting kids excited about reading and experiencing their city," youth services coordinator for the Milwaukee Public Library, Mandy Tuthill said.

The "Super Readers" promised to read for 15 minutes each day, and come to the library at least three times this summer. Then they got a chance to pick out some of their favorite books to take home with them.

Library officials hope the kids keep their nose in a book to keep their mind sharp for the following school year.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett also declared Monday, May 14th "Super Reader Day" across Milwaukee.

To sign up for the "Super Reader Program," any child may visit any Milwaukee Public Library location.

CLICK HERE for more information on Milwaukee's "Super Reader Program."