Library packs Summer With Entertainment

  05/28/1995

It’s summertime magic at all 23 Tulsa city-county libraries! “Discover America the Beautiful,” the theme of the library’s 1995 summer reading program, offers children 12 and under the fun of reading and a chance to earn rewards, such as stickers, stamps, a medal, free entertainment passes and an entry in a drawing for other prizes. The grand prize is a free trip for a family of four to Colorado Springs, Colo., home of Pikes Peak, and the place that inspired Katharine Bates to write the poem “America the Beautiful.” The poem, which later became the song, was published 100 years ago on July 4th. Professional performers will bring an additional dimension of entertainment to the library’s reading program with events featuring magic, songs, stories and tall tales. The presenters have developed shows tied to the “Discover America the Beautiful” theme. “The entertainers will perform throughout the system,” Kelly Jennings, library children’s coordinator, said. “Storytellers, singers and magicians will even keep weekend hours so that children of working parents can have an opportunity to participate.” The patriotic magic of The Great Bradini (Brad Evans) will also enthrall youngsters beginning June 6 at Hardesty South Regional Library, 6737 S. 85th E. Ave. Bradini will make two other appearances (or disappearances) at Martin East Regional Library, 2601 S. Garnett Rd. Princess Riley is a popular Tulsa spellbinder. Her “Tales for the Good Wytotoes” (that’s children in Swahili) will awaken imaginations. Princess’ first appearance will be at Suburban Acres Library, 55l E. 46th St. N. on June 5. During the summer, she will appear at five additional libraries. The Summer Reading Program’s performance roster includes 13 other performers. Other prominent storytellers who will captivate children include Dixie Belcher, Diane Farler, Kabitcha Feke Sego (Will Hill), Mary Crescenzo, Fran Stallings, Angie Kuehn, Shan Goshorn, Mike Clift, Tyrone Wilkerson, Debra Garfinkel, Kareth Bodman, Pat Nelson and “Sky Shivers.” All events are free. Times and dates of the performances will vary. Visit your nearest library to join the reading program and pick up a schedule of that library’s events. For a list of locations, look under “Libraries” in the yellow pages. Call Central Library’s children’s department at 596-7971 to find out when and where specific performers will be appearing.