The clouds parted a bit and like a gust of wind over 300 people descended on the Nederland Community Library to participate in the fun and games to kick off the Summer Reading Program, sponsored by the Nederland Library Foundation.

According to Jessie Ansari, “So far, 240 people have signed up for the Summer Reading Program challenge.” The program is open to people of ALL ages and folks can sign-up all summer long, then pick up a packet at the Library or download online, color in each signpost once they have completed the goal and return completed sheets to the library by August 11 to be entered into the grand prize raffle to win a $100 gift card to Colorado Adventure Center in Estes Park or to a local business! Ansari also shared, “This year, EVERYONE who completes the challenge wins a super nifty carabiner compass!”

"It seemed like every kid in town was at the Summer Kick-off this year. It was such a fabulous community builder for Nederland. To top it off, the Library Foundation sold lots of children's books ($5 donation/packet). The wind did not deter the love of reading!" shared Susan Kelly, Nederland Community Library Foundation, President.

Kaleidoscope Kitchen served up delicious snacks and dinner, shaved ice was available with all colors and flavors, the Nederland Fire Department was on scene to collect signed pledge papers that kids turned into the Fire Department. The pledge says the kids agree not to play with matches or fire, not leave a campfire unattended, etc. Kids raced around and bounced on the giant inflatable castle.

The Nederland Library Foundation also hosted a book sale during the event. “While it wasn’t the biggest day of the year for book sales, the foundation had a great time engaging with families and helping raise funds to keep supporting all the amazing programs and events that the Library offers,” stated Ansari.

The Nederland Community Library is located at 200 Highway 72 in Nederland. For more information visit https://nederland.libcal.com.