The Alameda Free Library celebrated its 2022 Summer Reading Challenge with a kickoff event at the Main Library on Saturday, June 4. The event included crafts for children, teens, and adults; a how-to session with Easy Street Cycling; and special performances by Sterling Johnson, the Bubblesmith.

The event was to celebrate the beginning of the Alameda Free Library’s 2022 Summer Reading Challenge: Read Beyond the Beaten Path. The challenge started on June 1 and runs through July 31. The library committee created the event to encourage reading as well as life-long learning.

The challenge asks participants to read for 12 hours and complete 12 activities between June 1 and July 31. The more challenges a contestant completes the more prizes they can win. Everyone who completes all three challenges will get to choose their very own book.

Participants can track their reading and activity completion online. This will allow contestants to take part in the program from anywhere, even on summer vacation. A paper game board is also available at all three Alameda libraries.

Participants can enter the competition in the individual or family section, or the group or class section. The nine-week program is open to people of all ages. All books and activities must be read and completed within the Summer Reading Challenge timeframe. Reading and activities logged elsewhere will not count toward any prizes.

This free program is made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Alameda Free Library. Alameda Free Library is located at 1550 Oak Street and is wheelchair accessible. The library has a full schedule of special programs and events, allowing everyone to participate in fun reading and learning activities.

To sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge, visit www.alamedafree.beanstack.org/reader365. For more information, contact the Alameda Free Library’s Children’s Department at 510-747-7705.