La Crosse Public Library hoping to entice kids to read while out of school

School’s out for the summer and students have a lot of free time on their hands.

The La Crosse Public Library hopes some of that time is spent with their noses in books or other reading materials.

It’s important for their brain development and school performance according to the library’s youth services manager, Dawn Wacek.

“Kids who read for pleasure in the summertime do better on their testing in the fall,” Wacek said. “There’s just something about reading for fun that keeps those skills sharp.”

The youth program at the library called “Summer Dare” starts Tuesday.

It challenges children to be curious, be active outside, help their neighbors or family members and visit the library.

Wacek said they are putting out all the stops to ensure that kids visit the library this year.

“We try to make this a destination spot,” she said. “We’ve got a lot of great events scheduled this summer including a juggler, concerts and nature walks. We really want our families to play and learn together.”

A carnival of sorts takes place from 4-6 p.m. to kick off the summer program with games, prizes, refreshments and more.