State library launches annual reading-incentive program

The Hawaii State Public Library System will be hosting a free seven-week summer reading program encouraging kids to explore the stories of their heroes, both real and imaginary. 

Registration for the program begins Monday, with weekly incentives offered to kids and teens for reading a book or having a book read to them. Kids are awarded snacks, crafts and school supplies by presenting their reading list to their neighborhood librarian. 

The event kicks off with the Super Hero Bon Dance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 6 on the Great Lawn of the Hawaii State Library, 478 S. King St. There will be appearances by "Star Wars" characters as well as real-life law-enforcement and safety heroes. Kids can fold a samurai hat, make a hachimaki headband, cheer at the andagi-eating contest or register for the summer reading program. 

For information, call your local library or visit librarieshawaii.org/summerreading.

Barnes & Noble giving a free book to keiki readers

Barnes & Noble’s summer reading program gives keiki who read eight books by Sept. 7 the opportunity to choose a free book. 

Among the 21 free titles offered to kids through grade 6 are "Pinkalicious: Fairy House," "The 13-Story Treehouse," "The Mouse and the Motorcycle," "The Strange Case of Origami Yoda" and "Babymouse: Queen of the World!"

To claim a free book, kids must fill out an Imagination’s Destination Reading Journal, available at Barnes & Noble in Ala Moana Center or at bit.ly/1lDSJQW.