July 11 marks the first day of the weekend-long C.H. Booth Book Sale, and that makes it a perfect time to talk summer reading.

As the weather heats up and summer rolls in, the first things many may think of are trips to the beach and vacations to faraway locations with beautiful scenery. Others may be thinking of those exact same things, while also having a good book to read.

Summer reading is a long-standing tradition; taking in a riveting story or fascinating information on a topic of interest while at the beach, listening to the sounds of the waves, soaking in the sun and breathing in the briny ocean air is a pleasure enjoyed by many.

Summer reading is also a habit that is important to instill in children, especially in the post-pandemic world, given how much school has been interrupted for them over the past year.

The 49th annual C.H. Booth Library Book Sale, is to be conducted this year from July 11 through 15 at Reed Intermediate School, 3 Trades Lane. Full of treasures just waiting to become some reader’s new favorite book and best friend, the library sale features multiple rooms full of mystery, romance, science fiction, fantasy, art, nature, cooking, children’s and young adult books, as well as puzzles, games, CDs and DVDs, all priced to let readers walk home with a bag full of adventure companions. Filling a gymnasium and a lunch room with books, as well as smaller nooks and niches, the Booth Library sale never fails to disappoint and has something for everyone. Next year marks the 50th anniversary!

For those who may be busy this weekend, Booth Library also offers its Little Book Store, run during library hours at the library’s location at 25 Main Street.

The library’s summer reading program started in June, and readers can join in the fun this summer with Summer Reading BINGO, running through August 15.

There are three separate BINGO cards available for different age groups: Children (ages 4-12), Young Adults (grades 6-12), and Adults (ages 18+). Stop by the library to pick up a BINGO card and start reading!

As participants read throughout the summer, they can mark off squares on their card. Books, audiobooks, e-books, graphic novels, and manga all count! Complete a BINGO in any direction—horizontal, vertical, or diagonal and hand in your card to the library.

The rules and prize draw times may vary between Children’s, Teens, and Adults. Visit each department for additional information.

This is a chance for readers of all ages to read what they love, try something new, and enjoy a summer of stories with C.H. Booth Library.