From Garden Parties to Summer Reading Programs, Siskiyou County Library Keeps Kids on the Literacy Path During the School Break

Research spanning 100 years has proven that students lose ground academically when they are out of school for the summer, according to Attendance Works, an organization dedicated to improving school attendance and academic retention. Why does it matter? Lost time in the summer slows students’ progress toward reading proficiency, often setting them back before they enter the next grade in the new school year. Moreover, many studies show that enrichment programs or reading at home lead children to make slight gains in literacy over the summer. Eventually, whether students fall behind, catch up or increase literacy over the summer influences whether students graduate from high school and go on to college.

Libraries step in to keep children’s literacy skills sharp

According to the California Library Association, public library summer reading programs help children and teens retain and enhance their reading skills during the summer, help adults model reading activity for youth and provide a haven and a community for readers. These reading programs are spearheaded by dedicated library staff like Bethany Elliott, Children’s Program coordinator for the Yreka branch of the Siskiyou County Library. Through Bethany’s efforts, busy parents can make sure their children keep their reading skills sharp during those long dog days of summer.

Bethany Elliott and Gemma work together to keep the Yreka Library Children’s Program vibrant.

Triumph over challenges brings the best to library services

Bethany has cerebral palsy which prevents her from being able to walk and presents a challenge to speaking and moving her arms and hands. But these challenges have not slowed her down in her work to inspire children to read and learn. “I love kids!” Bethany says when asked why she works so hard to promote and raise funds for children’s programs at the library. She is busy all year long fundraising, planning and executing holiday parties, drawing contests and garden-themed activities as well as the annual summer reading program.

Children participating in the summer reading program at the Siskiyou County Library in Yreka complete a reading log, bring it to the library and choose prizes. Bethany works hard all year raising funds to support the summer reading program as well as other children’s activities at the library. “She is an incredible fundraiser and deftly coordinates the children’s program,” says Siskiyou County librarian Teresa Johnson. “We wouldn’t have a successful summer reading program or all the other wonderful children’s activities we offer without her hard work and dedication.”

When it comes to the summer reading program, “my prizes are better than any library in the county!” Bethany says. She is proud to say she makes donation dollars stretch by finding new toys at deep discounts at after Christmas sales and by asking for discounts from local retailers.

Loving canine companion Gemma assists Bethany with many daily tasks.

Bethany has an AA in Early Childhood Education from College of the Siskiyous, which she says she “uses every single day in my work” and is assisted by Gemma, her beautiful, loving guide dog. Gemma can pick up items Bethany drops, help her take off her coat and open doors for her. (The library doors have ropes on them for Gemma to use to pull open the doors and Gemma can also press the automatic door panels to allow Bethany to easily enter and exit buildings.)

Support for vital library services

Ever the fundraiser, Bethany reminds us that she is always taking monetary donations for the children’s program. To donate to the children’s program, call the library, (530)841-4175, and leave a message for Bethany. She will return your call with information about how best to make your donation.

Thanks to dedicated, hardworking, caring staff members like Bethany Elliott, our precious local libraries are a tremendously valuable resource for families and a quiet refuge for readers of all ages.

Check the North State Parent community calendar online for upcoming fundraisers and library events. The large, well-organized and attractive children’s area at the Yreka branch, 719 4th Street, is a great place to spend a few hours or the day bonding with your children over a wealth of excellent children’s books, fun and unusual board games and other activities. While you’re there, pick up flyers and find out more information about children’s events and all the library has to offer.