Amberly Clowe
Teacher | Mom of Two
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Okay. We’re about halfway through summer, so there’s a really good chance you’re tired. Tired of the heat. Tired of the house-sized bugs (Oh, is that just Houston?), and probably tired of the fighting. These are all perfect reasons to show your local library some love this summer. Here are ten more:

1. It’s free. ‘Nuff said on that.
2.  Attend an uber-fun activity. Our library has an actual activities calendar. There’s everything from rock painting to movie nights and even magic shows.
3. This is a total given, but we all need a reminder every now and again. The library is one adventure after another for everyone. Sparkly board books for the little guys and whimsical fairy tales for the older kiddos. Not to mention, swoonworthy romances and classic whodunits for mom and dad.
4. It’s true. No one really wants to think much about school over the summer, but we can’t completely forget about how important it is for kids to read during these months. As a teacher, I have seen kids begin the following year so much farther behind than they needed to, and that can be a really frustrating situation for a seven-year-old.
5. It’s a fairly easy way to teach a life lesson. Kids learn that they must take care of the property they check out. Maybe that means a special drawer for library books or a chart, reminding the family when the items are expected back. Having a library card is a fun and important responsibility.
6. When you read, you’re showing your kids you value reading. They will use and appreciate this skill for the rest of their lives.
7. You’re spending family time away from that intoxicating, glowing screen. It’s so easy to fall into the TV routine, especially during the summer when you’ve exhausted your mind for fun things to do. Go to the library. You can spend time with your loved ones, with way less digital distraction.
8. Volunteer work is good for the soul. Is there something that you and your family could help out with at the library? Find out. You’re teaching your kids to think about other people. Even we adults can use help breaking out of our comfortable bubbles.
9. The life lessons just keep on coming. This one might not be quite as fun, but honestly, it’s necessary. Take your kids to the library to teach them how to be quiet and respectful in public. Ouch, I know, I told you it’s not the most fun reason for parents, but we’ve got to do what we’ve got to do. There are places to let your hair down and shout, and then, there are places to enjoy a nice, quiet moment. Kids need to know this. After time, they’ll grow accustomed to what is expected, and your job will get way easier. Trust me.
10. The final reason to go to the library this summer is…drum roll, please…it’s fun! It’s fun to read! It’s fun to know your kids’ literary likes and dislikes. It’s fun to get excited about the latest stories! It’s fun to surround yourself with other equally excited readers!

So…are you digging out your library card yet?

About Amberly Clowe

Amberly Kristen Clowe, an elementary school teacher, writes from her home in Kingwood, TX, where she lives with her husband, two children, and dog, Roxie. The author of two picture books and a chapter book, Amberly is an avid cycler and fan of all things coffee. Amberly spends her days teaching and crafting stories that share faith in a fun way with young readers. Her latest book, Teeny Sweeney and the Mustache Cash, is the first chapter book in the brand new Teeny Sweeney series published with Little Lamb Books.

View all posts by Amberly Clowe here.

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