JACKSONVILLE — One way to keep children's minds stimulated during the summer months is for them to continue reading. The Jacksonville Public Library recently began its summer reading program for children of all ages.

Registration for the Summer Reading Program began June 2. The program will run through July 11.

"The earlier you register children, the better. They are exposed to more books and activities the more time they have to participate," said Barbara Rowell, library director.

Due to construction at the library, all events will take place at the First United Methodist Church of Jacksonville. "The church has been so kind to us for allowing us to use their facility," said Kimberly Westbrooks, library assistant in charge of the youth department.

The statewide theme for summer reading programs this year is Be Creative at Your Library.

"We have chosen five themes that provide children with a way to be creative at their library. The themes are music, writing, drama, movement/dance and art," Rowell said. "For every five books the children read, they will receive a prize."

Some of the prizes include candy, toys and T-shirts.

"For our youth ages 12 to 18, we have chosen an Express Yourself at Your Library theme," Rowell said. "For every 250 pages they read, they will receive a prize or a T-shirt."

The children are divided into two age groups: infant to 7, and 8 and up.

"There will be a contest where the older children can submit art, poetry, writings and other forms of creativity," Westbrooks said. "These will be judged and prizes will be given to the winners."

The library also offers Back-to-Back Thursdays. These events include story time from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by craft time from 11:10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This event is open to all ages.

Another event offered is "Fun Friday Entertainment" where the entertainment is provided by professionals.

During the month of June, there will be two events dedicated to teens: Teen Coffee House and "Duck" Tape Creations.

"All of our activities allow children to have fun and still keep up their reading skills throughout the summer," Westbrooks said.

Rowell added that, "All of these events and activities are free, and this makes it accessible to everyone."

July 9 is the last day for children to submit books they have read and to receive prizes.

At the end of the Summer Reading Program, there will be a Madcap Masquerade Ball. Attendees must be enrolled in the program and have read at least five books.

For more information, see the library's Web site at www.jacksonvillepubliclibrary.org.