LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: JACKSON LIBRARY SUMMER READERS TURN OVER A LEAF

To the editor:

Our 2000 summer reading program, -- "Turn Over a New Leaf: Read!" -- was a wonderful success. One hundred forty-seven children read terrific books and enjoyed nature-themed story times with us. Fifty young patrons completed at least one 20-book contract, thereby earning a certificate of accomplishment signed by Gov. Mel Carnahan, Secretary of State Bekki Cook and state librarians; a free book of their choosing; and entries in out prize drawing. The grand-prize winners were Lukas Sander (preschool), Christian Roehm (kindergarten-grade 2) and Andrew Koenig (grades 3-5). Runners-up were A.J. Garms (preschool boy), Hannah Chasteen (preschool girl), Joseph Schneider (kindergarten-grade 2 boy), Jordan Whitener (kindergarten-grade 2 girl), Daniel Hooks (grades 3-5 boy) and Chelby Chezem (grades 3-5 girl).

Their prizes included some beautiful bookmarks made by Terri Popp and fellow rubber-stamping club members. Thanks to the generosity of the city of Jackson, the Jackson Public Library Board of Trustees, our Jackson Optimist friends and the Missouri Conservation Department, all our young participants had almost as great a time as we did.

Special gratitude to our storytime guests: Gene Meyer of the Conservation Department, Lisa Ausmus of Trail of Tears State Park and Rocky Rainey of Jurrock's Park Zoo and his animal friends, who made our gatherings extra enjoyable.

Jackson Parks and Recreation director Shane Anderson, data processing manager Dean Crites and several adult JPL patrons assisted us in so many valuable ways. We are forever grateful to local schools and the news media for the public relations help. Lisa Smith of FAQulty and staff gave us plenty of Web guidance.

Personally, I thank Bernice, Nola, our director Sally and Miss Angie, my coworkers. Their teamwork was priceless. Finally, to our summer readers: Your genuine enthusiasm, appetite for books, close attention and impeccable manners made having you as your guests a real pleasure. Remember: Every day is a good day to turn over a new leaf and read. Stay tuned for more JPL reading programs.

MICHELLE POE

Library Assistant

Jackson Public Library

Jackson, Mo.