For those in the know, the drive to encourage children to read is a massive part of the community. There are numerous county and regional based programs that focus on childhood development and one of the biggest aspects of that is literacy.

Beginning June 7, the Middlesboro Public Library will be hosting its Libraries Rock! summer reading program. Children ranging from six months of age to 16 years old are all encouraged to join.

Registration began on May 7, but there is still time, as the registration does not close until June 1. To sign up, contact or drop by the Middlesboro Public Library.

The program will run until July and the theme is, naturally, music.

June 7 is the “Opening Day Blast” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Starting at 11 a.m. the BrightStar Touring Theatre will present “Old McDonald’s Sing-Along Farm.”

The first week, June 13 and 14 will focus on instruments. June 20 and 21 will feature Appalachian music. June 27 and 28 will be Music and Mystery. July 5 will feature Patriotic Music. July 11 and 12 will be Rock N’ Rolls’ time to shine.

Activities for the older children and teens include an escape room scenario called “Break Out”, where participants will have to solve a mystery to escape. Tie-dying t-shirts and creative writing games will also be held.

The highlights for ages 5 to 10 include a Secret Agent Party and a 1950’s themed sock hop.

Lunch will be provided to all. There are also prizes to be won in each age group for those who win the contests. Teens have a chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card. Pre-teens have a change to win a light-up karaoke machine, and the toddlers can win an age appropriate piano.