As the end of another school year draws to a close, staff at all branches of the Linebaugh Public Library System are gearing up for the annual summer reading program. This year's theme is Every Hero Has a Story; and LPLS has great events, story times and other activities in store for all ages at your local branch. This year we also will be offering the added option of signing up and tracking your reading online.

Early literacy programming, materials, and activities are a core part of each library's offerings year-round. For many pre-readers and their families, the library is the only space offering free access to age-appropriate programs, resources, and expertise in their community. LPLS believes it is vital to include the youngest children--starting with newborns--in our summer reading program.

There are many benefits for starting children early with reading:

• Young children will gain self-confidence and a love for reading, books, and the library
• The groundwork will be laid for children to become lifelong readers and learners
• Entire families will have the opportunity to participate in age-appropriate summer reading programs
• Completion of the program will give children a sense of accomplishment and belonging
• Parents and caregivers will gain knowledge about early literacy and learning activities at the library that they can continue at home
• The library may become a community destination for more families during the summer.

A complete calendar of events can be found on the LPLS website or at each branch. Beginning Tuesday, May 26, you can sign up online at www.linebaugh.org or by visiting your local branch. The program runs from June 2 - July 24.

Linebaugh Public Library is located at 105 W. Vine St. in Murfreesboro. Smyrna Public Library is located at 400 Enon Springs Rd. West in Smyrna. Eagleville Bicentennial Public Library is located at 317 Hwy 99E in Eagleville. MGL Library is located inside Patterson Park Community Center at 521 Mercury Blvd. in Murfreesboro. Explore, Imagine, Engage through LPLS. For more information, call 615-893-4131 or visit www.linebaugh.org.