STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Adults can compete for dinner at the Hemingway House by joining in the 2024 Adult Summer Reading program.

The “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” as this year’s valley-wide adult summer reading challenge is called. And it begins today—Friday, May 24—with the end-of-the-program drawing held at 2 p.m. Sept. 4.

The Hailey Public Library, The Community Library and the Bellevue Public Library are partnering on the program designed to invite adults 18 and older to enjoy summer reading with a splash of adventure. Participants can register at any time either in person or online at the library most convenient to them.

Participants will receive a passport in either Spanish or English with guided activities and reading prompts. For each book read or activity completed, participants will get a page in their passport stamped at their home library. And they’ll get one ticket per page to enter into drawings for prizes.

The grand prize of dinner at the historic Ernest and Mary Hemingway House will go to two individuals from each library.

“Summers are the perfect time to read diversely and expand your choices to include things you might not normally choose to read,” said Pam Parker, a librarian at The Community Library. “This year’s Adult Summer Reads theme of Adventure Begins at Your Library aims to inspire your imagination around travel-themed reads and the many adventurous activities that we participate in locally. Whether it’s a novel turned vicarious vacation or a hiking guide to area trails you’ve never visited, this is your chance to Read Fearlessly with a flair for adventure."

This is the fourth year the libraries have partnered to encourage adult summer reading.

“Summer reading isn’t just for kids. We hope adults will enjoy the opportunity to learn something new, too!” said Kristin Marlar-Gearhart, Bellevue Public Library director.

“From thrilling tales to captivating narratives, embark on a journey where every page becomes a new adventure. Let's ignite the joy of reading and exploration together!” added Lyn Drewien, Hailey Public Library director. “Reading and exploration help us relax, learn, grow, and empathize with our environment. It’s the perfect complement to a fabulous Wood River Valley summer.”