Check It Out:

We want you to come visit your local library this summer! You are invited to participate in the Summer Reading Program taking place at the Newport Beach Public Library.

There is something for everyone and no excuse for not taking part in this exciting, free summer tradition.

The theme this year for the children’s reading program is “Be Creative @ Your Library.” From Saturday to Aug. 14 kids can earn cool prizes for every two hours spent reading. Sign up at any branch or www.newportkids.org.

In addition to earning prizes for reading, there are many other fun events to enjoy.

The library provides a wide selection of storytimes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and fun for the whole family.

The library is also offering free facepainting on select Saturdays throughout the summer. Stop by the Mariners Branch any time on Mondays for drop-in board games.

Sign up for the monthly craft club at the Central Library or stop by any of our library branches for drop-in crafts. Don’t forget to fill out a weekly prize drawing slip every time you visit the library for a chance to win T-shirts and other cool prizes.

We’ve also invited some spectacular entertainers to help us liven up the long summer days.

Performers include Musicians Heebie & Jeebie, a comedic duo who will entertain you with their silly songs. Mr. Twister will help kids learn how to create their own balloon animals.

Juggler Michael Rayner will amaze and defy gravity with his silly stunts. Everyone can come and learn the fascinating science behind bubbles with Bubble-ology 101.

Wild Wonders Inc. will introduce some exotic animals and with Parrot Tales, a troop of beautiful performing parrots will dazzle us with their pirate antics. Swazzle Puppet Show will present “Water Color,” a dazzling puppet show, while One World Rhythm will allow children to bring out their inner musician by participating in this rhythmic presentation.

Be sure to pick up a program guide at the children’s information desk or check our online calendar for all program dates and performance times.

Not to be forgotten is our reading program for Teens. Come “Express Yourself @ Your Library” by reading books, writing reviews and winning prizes. After reading your first five books and writing reviews you may choose your own free paperback book.

After the first five, your reviews are entered into the grand prize drawing and drawings for weekly prizes.

Another way to share your creative talents is by entering the art contest. Submit an original piece of art displaying your vision of “Express Yourself.” Any medium can be used — poetry, prose, painting, photography or digital art.

Entries can be submitted until Aug. 14 at the Teen Center at the Central Library.

Adults will also have a chance to share reviews, win prizes and get reading suggestions from librarians and fellow library users.

Stop by your favorite Newport Beach library branch today for more information and sign up for the reading programs starting Saturday!

CHECK IT OUT is written by the staff of the Newport Beach Public Library.