SUMMERDALE — Summerdale Public Library kicked off its annual summer reading program, "All Together Now," Tuesday, June 6, where it aims to embrace literacy and foster a sense of community.

The program's first day featured entertainment from Alligator Alley and Trae Barry, a Summerdale native who played in the XFL Championship this spring. Barry shared his love for reading by engaging young minds with stories about alligators, football and humorous anecdotes.

Sandy Evans, the children's program director at Summerdale Public Library, emphasized the program's mission to combat the "summer slide," a decline in reading skills during the summer break.

“We provide a reading challenge and a writing challenge,” Evans said. “We also have little ones, and they are able to draw. It just gets their imagination rolling so they can read and figure out how to tell a story.”

Evans further highlighted the library's commitment to inclusivity, ensuring children of all ages and those with disabilities actively participate in the summer reading program.

“If the child cannot read, the parent or caregiver can read to them. Even children with disabilities love to have stories read to them,” Evans said. “We want to make sure we are inclusive to all.”

A valuable partnership with Barnes and Noble was forged by Summerdale Public Library, offering children an incentive to read during the summer. Those who submit a paper confirming their reading between July 1 and August 1 will receive a free book courtesy of Barnes and Noble.

Baldwin County Sewer supported this year's program by providing snacks, funding for arts and crafts and organizing engaging entertainers.

The "All Together Now" program will continue every Tuesday from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. throughout the month of June. Additionally, the library hosts "Sunshine Story Time," focusing on STEM education, every Thursday from 2-4 p.m.

For further information, contact the Summerdale Public Library at (251) 989-2044.