The 2022 annual Coplay Public Library summer reading program ended with an awards gathering Aug. 13 at the library, located at Fifth and Center streets.

The theme of the program was “Oceans of Possibilities.” The program began in June and was open to kids of all ages (and adults, too!). Interim Director Sharon Dougherty noted a tremendous amount of planning and work went into making the program a success for attendees.

There are many benefits of reading. Some include that reading reduces stress and helps relaxation. It can improve one’s concentration and memory, enhance vocabulary expansions and strengthen writing skills, expand one’s knowledge and increase imagination and creativity.

Librarians Diane Derhammer and Karen Wolfe and volunteer Allison Kern were setting things up for a potential gathering later in the day. There was a treasure chest of toys for the kids to pick from. There were baskets as prizes for the kids.

The winning prizes were drawn around noon Aug. 13.

Of note, four sisters attended the program. Maddison, Delilah, Corabella and Abigail Piatt had a fun summer participating in the library’s reading program. About 40-plus kids and adults participated in the online and in-library program.

Program participants received raffle tickets based on the amount of reading and activities completed over the summer. Completed readings were entered by the participant on a website called Beanstalk. After the participants received their raffle tickets, they placed their tickets in cups by the baskets as would be done with any basket raffle.

Winners were asked to pick up their baskets. All participants were invited to visit the library and choose a prize from the treasure chest.