MEXICO – “Catch the Reading Bug!” is the theme for this year’s children’s summer reading program at the Mexico Public Library. The program will run from June 23 until Aug. 12.

The library will offer the program and reading incentives to readers ages 2 to 14.

Readers ages 2 to 5 will receive a prize for every two hours they spend reading or looking at books with an adult.

Readers ages 6 to 10 will receive a prize for every three hours spent reading with an adult of by oneself.

Readers ages 11 to 14 will receive a prize for every five hours spent reading.

Prizes will include coupons for free ice cream, pizza and kids’ meals, donated by local businesses.

A variety on non-food prizes will also be offered.

To sign up for the program, go to the library any time after Sunday, June 1, to register. All children who sign up will receive a free “Catch the Reading Bug!” book bag with them-related items inside. Also, for the first 25 children who sign up, there will be a voucher for a free ticket to the July 23 Portland Sea Dogs baseball game.

This year, the library will also offer “Terrific Tuesdays.” Every Tuesday there will be a special program for kids ages 2 to 12. The following is the schedule for “Terrific Tuesdays”:

June 24 at 10 a.m.: “The Snake Man,” Rob White, will visit and present a program with his snakes in Calvin Lyons Hall adjacent to the library.

July 1 at 10 a.m.: For kids ages 5 to 12, “Aquatic Bugs” program with Amanda White. For kids ages 5 and under, “Bugs” story and craft hour.

July 8 at 1 p.m.: American Girl Tea Party, featuring American Girl Doll, Kit. It is for girls ages 5 to 12 and will be presented by Jeanie Duguay and Sally Roy. More details will follow on the event to be held in Calvin Lyons Hall.

July 15 at 10 a.m.: Puppet shows presented by Michelle Boucher-Ladd.

July 22 at 10 a.m.: Bee keeper Carol Cottrell will present a program about bees and beekeeping. Honey tasting will be included at Calvin Lyons Hall.

July 29 at 10 a.m.: Jim Nutting, “bug enthusiast,” will present a hands-on, interactive program with a variety of insects. One of his specialties is butterflies.

Aug. 5 at 10 a.m.: Special guest performer, “Charlie Who,” and his sidekick Seth will present a show with juggling and mime at Calvin Lyons Hall.

Aug. 12 at 10 a.m.: End-of-summer reading celebration. Included will be the presentation of summer reading prizes and certificates, followed by a pizza and soda lunch for everyone at Calvin Lyons Hall.

For details on the reading program, contact the library at 364-3281 or e-mail [email protected].