Wednesday, September 10, 2008

A WILD Summer at the Southwick Public Library



Southwick Public Library's Wild Reads at your library Summer Reading Program culminated with a visit from Rainforest Reptiles' Michael Ralbovsky, who presented "Alligators and Crocodiles" on July 31 to a crowd of over 200 people. We met creatures that were small enough to fit in his pocket, and then a rare Chinese alligator that measured at least two feet in length. Mike is a herpetologist and the general curator for Rainforest Reptile Shows, who often provide animals to "Animal Planet", and was expert in sharing information about these amazing animals, emphasizing that although they may seem to be good prospective pets when they are small, they are wild animals to be respected in their natural habitats. The highlight of this interactive presentation was when any member of the audience could hold or pat the Chinese alligator.

This exciting special program, one of fifteen offered by the library this summer, marked the end of a successful summer reading program at Southwick Public Library which saw a 75% increase in adult participation as well as a steady participation by children and young adults.

~ Margo Storozuk, Children's Librarian, Southwick Public Library

Be sure to visit the WMRLS READS! website for more information on children, teen, and adult summer reading programs.

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