Summer Reading is in full swing at the Elizabethtown Public Library, and you're invited to sign up for the program.

"Our theme is 'All Together Now,'" said Jennifer Miller, children's librarian. "It's thinking about cooperation, kindness, friendship and bringing everybody together."

She noted that the program, which runs through Saturday, Aug. 12, has something for everyone from birth through age 19. "We have lots of opportunities for reading, crafts, art and story times," she stated. "We have STEM activities as well." There is also a Summer Reading Program for adults, she added.

Highlights of the Summer Reading Program include Touch a Truck programs on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, when children will be able to explore different vehicles up close.

"We have magician Ran'D Shine coming," Miller stated of the Tuesday, July 11, event. "He's a nationally recognized magician. His shows are very interactive, with magic, music and storytelling."

Critter Connections will visit the library on Wednesday, Aug. 9. "This will be a hands-on educational program where kids can take turns holding rabbits, guinea pigs and other critters," Miller said. "They can learn about the animals and how to properly handle them."

Kids who participate in the Summer Reading Program will be eligible for a variety of prizes, she noted. "Our sponsors are wonderful," Miller said. "Penn Cinema is a new sponsor this year, and they are giving movie tickets to everyone in the 0 to 19 age bracket." Other prizes include coupons for McDonald's ice cream, tickets to the Lancaster Barnstormers and admission to a variety of local attractions, including Bounce Kraze, Tiny Town and Waters Edge Mini Golf.

Miller noted that while the goal of the Summer Reading Program is to promote literacy, it also serves another purpose.

"Fun is the No. 1 reason to participate," she remarked. "It's important to maintain those skills from the school year, because teachers work really hard, and we want to be sure kids don't experience that summer slide, but it's also about having fun. It's a chance to see friends, maybe make some new friends and enjoy fun activities."

Miller noted that the library is able to offer year-round programming thanks to the generous support of the community. "We are an independent library under the umbrella of the Library System of Lancaster County," she stated. "Over 70% of our funding comes from private donations and the good will of our community."

For more information on the Summer Reading Program, visit https://etownpubliclibrary.org or stop in at the library, 10 S. Market St.