Summer reading program fun continued Friday at the Russellville Public Library with dancing, reading and ice cream treats.

Pilgrim’s mascot, Omelet the chicken, came to cheer on the children and led them in a round of “The Chicken Dance.”

With freebies including fidget spinners and ice cream, there was plenty of fun to go around.

For Diane Wright, COVID superintendent for Pilgrim’s, visiting the summer reading program was a positive experience she was glad to have a part in.

“We at Pilgrim’s are a family of food heroes, and it is an honor to be at this library and see how much public participation the summer reading program has,” she said. “Pilgrim’s is thankful to be a part of this program.”

Marquita Wilson, a childcare partner from the Family Guidance Center of Alabama, shared about upcoming local events for Kids and Kin, a statewide program for relatives who are childcare providers.

“Some people have described our programs as a support group, and they really appreciate the new research that’s used to help families bond and educate with positive discipline,” Wilson said. “You never leave empty-handed. Free items have included books or door prizes.”

Upcoming events will be held at the Eastside Plaza community center, 100 Eastside Plaza, Russellville, from 10 a.m. to noon:

• June 23 – Legends of Alabama: Exploring the People, Music and Stories That Make Alabama Great, Part 2
• July 14 – Legends of Alabama: Exploring the People, Music and Stories That Make Alabama Great, Part 3
• July 21 – Legends of Alabama: Exploring the People, Music and Stories That Make Alabama Great, Part 4
• Aug. 11 – Celebrating Mistak \es: Embracing a Growth Mindset
• Aug. 18 – Safety Tips to Keep Children Healthy in the Alabama Heat
• Sept. 8 – The Myths and Realities of Childhood Development
• Sept. 22 – Four Big Emotions to Talk About with Little Kids

Tina Rich spoke about the Girl Scouts and read the book “The World Needs More Purple People” by Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart.

“Reading this book is something new we’re doing this year for our summer programs. It’s fun and educational,” Rich said. “We’re also just telling parents and girls about us and opening them up to Girl Scouts, letting them know we’re still here.”

RPL director Joshlyn Bowen described the afternoon as “another awesome event.”

“I am so excited about the rest of the program, and I can’t wait to see everyone at the next event Friday at 2 p.m.”

Registration is maxed out for the library’s summer reading program, but additional activities and events will be offered. For more information, visit the Russellville Public Library Facebook page, email ruslib110@yahoo.com or call 256-332-1535.

The library is located at 110 Lawrence Street E., and it is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.