By Erin Schirota, Head of Youth Services, Bronxville Public Library

Sep. 21, 2016:  It seems as though every other day there's a new electronic device, a new app, or a new game for kids to lose themselves in. With so much to choose from, it's sometimes hard to believe that many kids are picking reading above all else. But that's exactly what the youth of Bronxville proved this summer! 

The staff of the Bronxville Library's children's department saw a surge in the number of children reading over 100 books this summer. The goal of the reading program is to encourage children to read for pleasure during the summer break. The reading program also helps young students retain skills learned during the school year.

Sure, small incentives to keep them motivated were handed out along the way, but the number of kids who went above and beyond surprised even the librarians! The staff gave out 32 "elite reader" medals to children topping the 100-book mark. 

One dedicated reader, Leopold Daub, even reached 200! Additionally, nearly 75 children read over 50 books, and as a special reward, the youth services staff treated them to an end-of-the-summer ice cream sundae party. 

So the message is clear—books are not going anywhere anytime soon. Not if the children of Bronxville have any say!

Pictured here:  Leopold Daub, reader of over 200 books this summer.

Photo courtesy Erin Schirota, Head of Youth Services, Bronxville Public Library