Unearth a story reading program

Encouraging reading and learning throughout the summer break, the Hill City Public Library has an entertaining and educational line-up of events and activities planned. This year’s summer reading theme is “Unearth a Story.”

The Kids Summer Reading Contest kicks off June 1 and runs through July 12. Children can register at the library to receive a reading log and swag bag while supplies last. 

Participants are encouraged to read 20 minutes each day. Reading logs can be turned in for weekly prizes and children who complete all six weeks are entered into a grand prize drawing for their age group. 

Grand prizes will be drawn July 14, with one boy and one girl selected from each age division: preschool, elementary, middle school and high school. 

Prizes include a Strider bike and helmet for the preschool division, a bicycle and helmet for the elementary division and $100 Amazon gift cards for both the middle school and high school divisions. 

While you’re at the library, don’t forget to look for the summer reading mascot, Digby, a purple triceratops who will find a new hiding spot each day. 

A series of events sponsored by the Hill City Public Library, Hill City Garden Club, Friends of the Hill City Library and the Boys and Girls Club of the Black Hills will take place throughout June at the Boys and Girls club beginning at 10 a.m.

Kids can get their hands dirty June 2 during a flower-planting activity hosted by the Hill City Garden Club. Participants will be able to take home their own potted plant. Supplies were donated by Krull’s Market.

New to this year’s line-up is the Salida Circus, coming June 9, with a variety of circus acts and entertainment, including jugglers and acrobats.

“It’s the first time we’ve ever had them,” said Tammy Alexander, library director. “I’m excited.” 

June 23, the museum at Black Hills Institute will present an educational program featuring prehistoric fossils, specimens and cast replicas.

The final event, June 30, will feature Starr Chief Eagle—hoop dancer extraordinaire—bringing an interactive and educational performance centered on Lakota culture. Performing the rare tradition of Hoop Dancing, she uses 22 hoops to create designs, shapes and creatures to tell a story. 

Other upcoming events include the Road Scholar Lecture “Honoring D-Day, Echoes of Valor & Victory,” June 11 in the Kids’ Annex at 11 a.m. and again at 4 p.m.

The library will be closed June 19.