The New Rochelle Public Library threw two celebrations for youngsters who participated in the Summer Reading Program. The events featured entertainers who had the children participate and have fun.
The parties took place Tuesday and Wednesday. Tuesday's event featured entertainer Kurt Gallagher, who sang, make jokes and got the children jumping around. For Wednesday, David Engel's Pirate School! got the standing-room only crowd laughing and clapping.
Kathleen Cronin, head of children's services at the library, said this year saw 841 children read 8,675 books, which is more than double last year's.
Students participated in either kindergarten or pre-K age groups, where they were likely read to, or grades one through five where they selected what they wanted to read. Kronin didn't have an explanation for the increase over last year.
Students were allowed to read whatever they wanted—there was no list—and in whatever language they prefered. They were awarded certificates at the end of the performances and refreshments were served.
