Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Loralei Lazurek
As the scorching summer sun casts its glow over the Sonoran Desert, an exciting adventure unfolds within the walls of Desert Foothills Library. With a theme that resonates like a siren’s call, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” the nonprofit organization’s annual summer reading program promises to ignite a passion for reading and exploration like never before.
“Desert Foothills Library participates in the summer reading program through Maricopa County Reads, which is supported by the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records, a division of the Secretary of State,” explains Dawn Treude, the library’s youth and teen librarian. “The goal is to provide a free and inclusive program for all ages that encourages literacy and discovery through active participation at the library.”
Desert Foothills Library’s summer reading program is an inclusive celebration that transcends age boundaries. Through an interactive website, participants can create unique avatars, log their reading minutes and unlock a world of challenges and secret codes, earning coveted badges along the way.
“For younger children, we also provide a physical game board to track minutes,” Treude adds. “While you can only select one library for collecting your prizes, you can attend events all over the Valley. Every day of the week something fun is happening somewhere!”
Reading Revelry
At Desert Foothills Library, the summer reading program transforms into an immersive experience, offering a plethora of unique activities and events tailored to captivate readers of all ages.
“For youth, we have an outdoor foam party and an adventurous look at venomous and poisonous live reptiles,” shares Treude, detailing the diverse offerings. “For teens, we’re making sushi rod puppets and hosting a K-pop dance workshop. Mixed in are classic hands-on arts and crafts, musical guests and traditional storytimes. Adults will continue to have many wellness options, arts and crafts and informative programs like our ‘The Beatles Next: The Solo Years.’”
Treude’s infectious enthusiasm is evident as she describes the library’s commitment to catering to diverse interests and reading levels.
“Collection development is one of my favorite aspects of my job as youth and teen librarian here at Desert Foothills Library,” she says. “I have ordered more than 300 new books, so our shelves are well-stocked for the program. We have everything from board books to leveled readers to picture and chapter books. Our graphic novel and manga sections are growing too. And I am always welcome to purchase suggestions. It’s important that any library collection reflects the interests and needs of its community.”
For those who embark on the literary adventure, a treasure trove of prizes and incentives awaits.
“This year, we have prizes from Arizona State Parks, Peter Piper Pizza and Raising Cane’s in addition to the free book you earn upon completion of the program,” reveals Treude, noting that readers can also receive small prizes at registration as well as the 250-, 500-, 750- and 1,000-minute marks. “All of those who complete the program will be entered in our raffle for special prizes. This year we have two Playaway Launchpad tablets that are pre-loaded with educational games for kids and brain games for adults.”
Skipping the ‘Summer Slide’
Beyond the allure of prizes and activities, Desert Foothills Library’s summer reading program serves a crucial role in combating the dreaded “summer slide” — the phenomenon where students’ reading skills can stagnate or even regress during the summer break.
“Children and teens are ready for the break summer provides from the busy school year, but that doesn’t mean learning has to stop,” Treude asserts. “The library is a great place for informal learning. One of the benefits of the summer reading program is that you meet new people and try new things.”
The program is also extremely effective at nurturing lifelong readers.
“By emphasizing reading for pleasure, young people have the agency to self-select books that interest them,” Treude says. “This builds confidence and independence. The more engaged they are with what they’re reading, the more they read.”
Pages of Possibility
While the librarians and staff play a pivotal role in guiding participants, Treude highlights their broader mission.
“A library provides access to quality materials and services to its patrons,” she explains. “The role of librarians and staff is to ensure everyone feels welcome in our building while using those services. We are here to answer your questions, help you find a book and, thanks to our amazing intern, Ross, teach you how to better utilize your personal technology.”
However, the true strength of this initiative lies in the community’s involvement. From dedicated volunteers who staff the popular used bookstore, Chapter 2 Books, to the generous book donations that fuel the library’s operations, Desert Foothills Library’s summer reading program is a collaborative effort that relies on the collective spirit of Cave Creek and its surrounding communities.
“Desert Foothills Library is the only privately funded public library in Maricopa County,” says Treude, noting that the nonprofit organization also accepts direct donations.
As the summer solstice approaches, Desert Foothills Library stands ready to embark on a literary odyssey unlike any other. With a diverse array of activities, enticing incentives and an unwavering commitment to fostering a love for reading, this oasis of knowledge beckons readers of all ages to join in the adventure.
“Involvement in our library comes in many forms as we offer over 100 programs per month,” Treude concludes. “From gigging out with our ukulele jam session or being creative with our Craft ‘n Chats to joining a book group, signing up for our Literate Foodies events held in our demo kitchen or finding that inner peace with tai chi, there is something for everyone at Desert Foothills Library.”
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