Surprise libraries open summer reading registration; kickoff scheduled May 31
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Summary
Surprise Public Library registration for summer reading began May 1. The commission heard staff updates on kickoff events, attendance last year, outreach, volunteer roles, and partnerships including Phoenix Mercury ticket giveaways.
Library staff told the Library Advisory Commission on May 8 that summer reading registration began on May 1 and that the system’s official program runs June 1 through Aug. 1, with a kickoff event set for May 31 at Surprise Regional Library.
The presenter said the Surprise branches currently lead the valley in registered readers. “As of right now, we in the valley have the most, registered readers so far,” the staff member said. Staff described a full slate of summer programs, crafts and performers across the system and said summer events are already posted on the city events calendar and library website with tagging that lets patrons search for the “color our world” summer-reading series.
Staff asked commissioners for volunteer help at large events, especially the kickoff, where crowd management, supply distribution and program assistance are commonly needed. Last year the presenter said the kickoff drew roughly 1,600 to 1,800 people; staff said attendance and program counts have grown substantially year over year.
The commission heard several event and outreach updates: a design contest for library branding with winners to be announced in June and new memorial library cards to honor the late Commissioner Bill Shields, with a design to be selected by his wife, Judy. Staff also reported hiring updates: Hollyhock branch will add a part-time employee, Darlene, starting in approximately two weeks, and another candidate is pending HR clearance.
Partnerships and sponsorships were discussed: staff said Phoenix Mercury provided tickets as part of summer-reading incentives; staff also mentioned outreach to military-family readiness centers and community HOAs. Commissioner volunteers said they would help staff the kickoff and other events. Staff noted the library posts programs three months in advance and tags summer-reading items on the calendar so patrons can find events and collect participation points.
No formal action was taken; staff will follow up with a volunteer outreach email and a comprehensive event list for commissioners and volunteers before the kickoff.