Waukegan library launches summer program; ‘A celebration of reading of all genres'

Chicago Tribune

27-05-2025

Now that the local school year has drawn to a close, the Waukegan Public Library moves into high gear with its summer reading program and a panoply of other events over the next three months, with many geared toward youths.
Though the reading program is designed for all ages, library executive director Tiffany Verzani said that for young people it helps the youngsters keep their reading skills sharp while they are out of class during the summer months.
'It's important for kids and teens to keep reading poetry, graphic novels and the things they like over the summer after the school year,' Verzani said. 'Our summer reading program is a celebration of reading of all genres.'
The library's summer reading program starts this week, giving people of all ages an opportunity to read library books or volumes from elsewhere, thus qualifying for raffle tickets and a prize.
Continuing through Aug. 10, the reading program is one of several at the library this summer. Weekday free lunches start this week for those under 18 and run through Aug. 8, concerts begin on the first Friday in June and the annual used book sale takes place May 31 and June 1.
Labeled 'Color Our World,' Claire Quin, the library's youth and teen services manager, said the reading program has three divisions. One is for all youngsters under 14, another for teens between 14 and 18 and the third for adults. The requirements are the same.
Rubi Arreola, a youth services assistant, said each participant keeps a log to show what they are reading. Reading five books qualifies for a raffle ticket, where one person will get a $50 gift card. If they read a sixth, they get a second raffle ticket.
'They have to read or listen to five books,' Arreola said. 'Kids who complete the program get a box of crayons, teens get colored pencils and adults receive a colorful poster. They can read what they like, or we can help them find something.'
Quin said there will be a kickoff party sponsored by the Friends of the Waukegan Public Library from 2 to 4 p.m. on June 1. Participants will be able to engage in a community art project, take pictures in a selfie booth and more.
Quin said the program grows each year. Last year, more than 300 participated.
During the school year, students in Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 receive free breakfast and lunch. In the summer, the library offers supplements to the school lunch program with meals, plus an activity. On Fridays, lunch moves outside with a picnic at the concert.
'We want to make sure the children have food security during the summer,' Verzani said.
While the children are getting a free lunch at the concerts, Verzani said the Friends of the Library, who organize and fund the events, sell cookies and drinks. The music includes a wide variety of genres.
Mary Rose Strubbe, a member of the Friends of the Library who organizes the annual book sale, said it takes place from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on May 31, and from 1 to 4:30 p.m. on June 1. The first three hours on May 31 are reserved for members of the organization.
'It's not a problem,' Strubbe said. 'You can join for $10. There are thousands of books, mostly gently used.'
For those who want a bargain, Strubbe said people can fill a bag with books for $5. Bags will be available, but she urges people to bring their own reusable shopping bags.